Kelvin Itoya is Enugu Rangers' joker, says Gbenga Ogunbote

Gbenga Ogunbote says Kelvin Itoya is Enugu Rangers’ joker after he inspired them to a Federation Cup comeback win over Kano Pillars at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Wednesday.

The Flying Antelopes made a false start to their quest for title glory after the Sai Masu Gida gained a three-goal lead through Rabiu Ali, Alhassan Ibrahim and Nyima Nwagua in Asaba.

However, Itoya, who replaced Ugochukwu Ugwoke in the 51st minute powered in a thunderous strike 13 minutes from time before Chidera Ezeh and Ajani Ibrahim completed the fightback.

And the former Enyimba coach, who in the process won his first ever major title blamed their poor start to mistakes but admits expressed delight in their comeback victory.

“All glory goes to God. This happened because of his mercies and I return all the glory to him,” Ogunbote told media.

“We had careless moments and It's always sad conceding those goals but there is nothing you can do. It happens in football. The most important thing was working hard as a to fight back.

“Itoya [Kelvin] is a joker. He is one of the players in the team and for very obvious reasons I bring him in the second half of our games. It has worked for me and so if it is working for me, why don't I continue to use him that way.

“I was glad he yet again brought us back into the game and I have no regrets using him. I don’t like comebacks either, but when mistakes are committed you pay dearly for it. Once it happens, you have to work hard to make things up.

“It was a great scare but we fought hard to ensure we emerged champions and I am happy. I thank our fans who stood by us even when we were down.”