Heartland FC fans have thrown their support behind coach Kennedy Boboye who has been asked by the Imo state government to step down as the club’s manager.
Recall that Boboye was appointed in November replacing Christian Obi who was sacked following the team’s poor start to the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier League Football (NPFL) season.
As at the time he was appointed on a one-year contract, Heartland were yet to record a win after nine outings but upon his resumption, Boboye led the team out of relegation after winning three games. Boboye had 10 points in seven games while Obi had six points from nine games without registering a win.
But in a twist of events, Christian Obi has been asked to return to the club, a decision which didn’t go well with the fans.
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It was an emotional scene after Heartland defeated table toppers, Remo Stars 3-1 yesterday with the fans chanting solidarity song for Boboye to be kept in the team despite the directive that Coach Obi be reinstated back in the team. The fans were chanting “Na you we know”.
In his post-match reaction, Boboye who was visibly in tears appreciated the fans for the support while declaring “for now my task ends with Heartland FC”.
Meanwhile, other results saw Enyimba defeating Bayelsa United 2-1 while Shooting Stars lost by 2-0 to Enugu Rangers.
Rivers United were held to a 1-1 draw by Bendel Insurance while Abia Warriors defeated Gombe United 3-1.
Katsina United got the better of Akwa United with a 1-0 win while Lobi Stars defeated Niger Tornadoes 1-0.
Kano Pillars defeated Kwara United 2-1 while Sporting Lagos lose again with a 1-0 loss to Plateau United.