MANILA, Philippines – With Rangers FC not free for this season after the departure of the entire roster of players to form Super Rangers FC, the question one has to ask — is the former’s way to a second consecutive AIA 7s Football Tournament title assured?
It is only week one of the country’s top seven-a-side football competition, and Super Rangers sent a message to the rest of the men’s division one that they are just as hungry after their ugly divorce from their parent club.
Super Rangers blasted Black Amigos, 2-0, to open their defense of their crown at the McKinley Stadium in Taguig last Sunday. Juel Ebere scored the brace for the team.
In other matches, Africa United turned back En Fuego, 2-0. Manila Stars squeaked past Manila Digger, 1-nil, while Sino FC likewise put one past Manila City Lopsy FC.
“I am delighted that the team started strong and won our first game of the season,” said head coach Charles Ujam, who played in the old UFL. “The game was tough since our opponent was the champion from Division II (and got promoted).”
“We had problems retaining ball possession at first, but we were able to correct that.”
Added team captain Fidel Nnabuife, “The team has really worked hard on our strength, stamina, and coordination. Ball possession and defense has always been on top of our game plan. We also made sure to hydrate with the Celsius energy drink that helped us.”
Super Rangers will face En Fuego on Sunday, February 19.