Lobi Stars FC Head Coach, Gbenga Ogunbote has reacted to the opening Matchday one Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) 3-1 defeat against his opponents, Plateau United on Sunday at the New Zaria road stadium, saying he would not entirely push the bulk of blames on his players.

The experienced gaffer in a post match interview with reporters in Jos, noted the difficulty in getting decent results in the season opener.

He said the defeat will only make his team put more effort going into subsequent matches.

“I will not  crusify any player for the defeat against Plateau United today (yesterday) I saw what they played and I know their capabilities which is why I signed them.

My players switched off today but we are lucky we played our first game away and the defeat will make them seat up and it’s  a wake up call we need to work more” he stated.

The ‘Oracle’ as he is fondly called by admirers who won his first ever silverware in two decades for Rangers Intl when he guided the Flying Antelopes to their maiden Aiteo Cup title in 35 years further stated that he is optimistic his team will finish the season on high.

“It’s too early to conclude we just played one game out of 38 matches. We still have as much as 37 games togo. The only thing I know is by God’s willing we will finish in appreciable position. continental ticket is not an option” he said.

Ogunbote had coached several clubs like Sunshine Stars, Shooting Stars, Enyimba and Giwa FC.