Sunshine Stars FC, a prominent club in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), is battling to retain its elite league status as the 2024/2025 season nears its conclusion. The Akure-based club has endured a challenging campaign, marred by inconsistent performances that have left them teetering on the brink of relegation. However, club president Bamidele Ologunloluwa remains optimistic about their survival prospects, calling on supporters to maintain their unwavering support.
In a statement released by the club, Ologunloluwa acknowledged the team's struggles but assured fans that efforts are being intensified to keep Sunshine Stars afloat in the NPFL. "We are making frantic efforts for Sunshine Stars to maintain elite league status," he said, appealing to both local and international supporters to remain calm and continue backing the team through this turbulent period.
The club president also emphasized the importance of collective support from stakeholders, urging them to rally behind the club to overcome the current challenges. "This is not the time for name-callings or blame games," Ologunloluwa stated. "Rather, it is a period when all and sundry need to come together to lift our heritage, Sunshine Stars, and ensure they do not go down."
Despite the bleak situation, Ologunloluwa expressed confidence in the team's ability to turn the tide with seven matches still left to play. He highlighted that with sincerity of purpose and commitment from both players and management, Sunshine Stars can still finish the season above the relegation zone.
The club president took pride in the management's dedication to player and staff welfare, noting that salaries and bonuses are being paid promptly to keep morale high. "As managers, we are not relenting in our players' and officials' welfare. Their salaries and bonuses are paid as and when due," he asserted, dismissing speculations of internal unrest.
Sunshine Stars' most recent outing ended in a goalless draw against Heartland FC at Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday. While the result was disappointing, it did earn the team a valuable point, bringing their tally to 34 points from 31 matches. Yet, the club remains uncomfortably close to the drop zone, leaving them with no room for complacency.
Supporters have voiced their concerns about the team's performances, but Ologunloluwa has reiterated that the focus should be on unity rather than criticism. "Blaming each other will not change our situation," he noted. "Instead, we must consolidate our efforts and work as one to safeguard our top-flight status."
Sunshine Stars have seven crucial matches left in their campaign, and each game now carries immense significance in their quest for survival. The club president believes that consistent support from fans and stakeholders will be pivotal as the team fights to secure vital points.
The Media Manager of Sunshine Stars, Femi Atolagbe, also echoed Ologunloluwa's sentiments, appealing to supporters to keep faith in the team's ability to pull through. He stressed that the club's history and legacy deserve to be preserved, and now is the time to show unwavering solidarity.
As the clock ticks down on the NPFL season, Sunshine Stars face a daunting task to maintain their status among the league's elite. Nonetheless, with a collective effort from players, management, and supporters, Ologunloluwa remains confident that Sunshine Stars will rise above the challenges and secure their place in the top flight.
0 Comments