Flight football club of Gboko were yesterday denied promotion to National Amateur League Division one by ASDC FC of Sokoto who defeated them 4-2 on penalties after 0-0 in regulation time in Minna.
The amateur League division two side which is sponsored by Flight Transport Company in Gboko, Benue State topped Group A of the playoff after picking up three wins and a draw to reach the playoff final.
They defeated Gwandu United of Kebbi 2-1, Dolphins FC Zaria 2-1, NYSC FC Abuja 1-0 before drawing their final group match 0-0 with Jega United.
The Coordinator of Flight FC, Godwin Tondo rued the failure of the team to gain promotion but said he was consoled by the excellent performance of his team.
He said despite financial challenges faced by the club, the players gave a good account of themselves and should be commended.
“Our club is sponsored by Flight which is a modest Transport Company based in Gboko. They are doing their best to support us but football business is capital intensive.
“It was not easy for us to attend the playoff in Minna. We passed through a lot of challenges to get to the venue. We managed everything including accommodation and feeding, yet we performed excellently.
“I believe that with a little more support from Gboko Local Government, public spirited individuals and corporate bodies like Dangote Cement in Gboko, we would go places.
“Flight Transport Company is committed to helping our youths to realise their dreams. We are appealing to others to join hands with them to take the club to higher heights,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Director/CEO of Flight Transport Ltd, Comrade Akor Andiir Gur is said to have expressed readiness to continue to sponsor the club.