Plateau United head coach Gbenga Ogunbote has described his side’s 1-1 draw against Khun Khalifat as “unfortunate,” while urging his players to focus on the positives and improve ahead of their remaining fixtures.
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The Matchday 35 encounter, played on Sunday, saw Khun Khalifat take an early lead through Mmesoma Nnorom in the 7th minute before Alao Danbani restored parity for Plateau United in the 41st minute.
Speaking after the game, Ogunbote admitted disappointment with the result but praised his players’ effort.
“Well, it was an unfortunate one and we take it as it has come. We take the positives from it so that we guide against such occurrences next time. I think the boys gave a good fight,” he said.
The experienced tactician suggested that external factors may have influenced his team’s performance, noting that player comfort on the pitch can affect outcomes.
“There’s nothing really that actually went wrong except the fact that sometimes when players are not too comfortable on the field of play, due to one thing or the other, such is the result you see,” Ogunbote explained.
Despite the setback, the Plateau United boss remained confident in his team’s ability, particularly in away fixtures, while emphasizing the importance of fairness in match conditions.
“If we have a level playing ground, I can tell you it’s difficult for any team to beat my team. I’m not saying we cannot lose, but if you defeat us, you must have done a lot of work,” he added.
Ogunbote also described the result as only a temporary setback, insisting his side has no reason to panic as the season approaches its conclusion.
“With this result, it’s a temporary setback. So we do not have anything to fear about. Every team is a good team. They came here and took a point—it’s unfortunate,” he concluded.
The draw leaves Plateau United in mid-table, while Khun Khalifat continue their battle to avoid relegation as the Nigeria Premier Football League season nears its final rounds.
