Crown FC technical adviser Fatai Akande says the Ajilete Warriors are fully prepared for the start of the new Nigeria National League season, with Heartland FC of Owerri awaiting them in their opening match this weekend.
Four months of work ahead of NNL opener
Akande believes Crown have reached the required physical and psychological level after spending four months in pre-season preparations.
- The squad is physically ready for the demands of the new campaign.
- Players are mentally focused ahead of competitive action.
- The team has been boosted by strong motivation going into the Heartland fixture.
Friendlies used to build the squad
The technical adviser said the club’s warm-up fixtures were valuable in evaluating the players, sharpening their understanding of the game plan and improving togetherness within the group.
However, he stressed that friendly-match scorelines should not be treated as the only measure of a side’s preparedness for the league season.
For Akande, the calibre of opponents faced and the experience gained from a variety of in-game scenarios have also played an important role in getting Crown ready for competitive football.
Welfare, loss and support from the stands
Akande expressed approval of the welfare provisions made for the players, although he admitted that the team has had to deal with the emotional impact of the tragic death of the club’s driver.
He called on Crown supporters to stand with the side through both positive and difficult results, urging them to help turn Soun Stadium into an intimidating venue for visiting teams.
- Fans were asked to maintain their backing regardless of the outcome of matches.
- Soun Stadium has been identified as a key potential home advantage for the Ajilete Warriors.
- Akande thanked Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his continued backing of the club.
- He also acknowledged Commissioner for Youth and Sports Wasilat Adefemi Adegoke for her support.
Heartland test to launch the campaign
Crown FC will now aim to convert their lengthy preparation period into an encouraging beginning when they face Heartland this weekend. The Owerri side, however, will arrive equally eager to open their own Nigeria National League campaign with victory.
