We were simply better - Mancha
by Legheri Onyamom 27 June 2012, 11:26
Tuesday, June 26 will probably prove to be the most important date in Plateau United's season as the National League side held their nerves to upset premier league champions, Dolphins in their Federation Cup Round of 60 tie.
And Plateau United coach, Patrick Mancha has told SuperSport.com his team fully deserved their victory over the Port Harcourt side in Katsina-Ala.
"I said before the match that we were going to play on equal terms and that it could go either way based on the tactics of either coach, and that is exactly what happened," he said.
"Most of my players have played in the top flight so there is no opponent that can intimidate us as far as this competition is concerned.
"Dolphins played well, but we were able to contain them and scored midway into the second half, which was just perfect for us as we comfortably held on till the final whistle."
Mancha nevertheless praised his players for rising to the occasion, and hoped they would gain more in confidence from eliminating the premier league champions.
"Whichever way you look at it, we beat one of the favourites in the competition as Dolphins are not just the league champions, but they also have a good record in the Federation Cup," he told SuperSport.com.
"Hopefully, this would give my team the belief they can take on anyone and possibly go all the way.
"We'll take each match as they come and urge our fans to be patient and support us to the end."
Plateau United, relegated from the premiership last season were tipped to bounce back at first attempt, but finished a disappointing 5th in National League Group B with 22 points, 12 behind the winners, Nasarawa United, who amassed 34 points.
