Heartland FC players and officials have been charged to use the window presented by the Imo FA Cup to properly assess the quality of the squad they have ahead of the Nigeria National League season which continues on Saturday, March 18th.
The Scientific Boys began the FA Cup with a 2-0 win over stubborn Malick Pro FC at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri on Tuesday to qualify for the quarter final of the competition.
In an exclusive chat with our correspondent, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development, Honourable Emeka Okoronkwo disclosed that thee State Government is happy that Heartland FC has begun the Imo FA Cup well.
He said the Imo government wants Heartland FC to see the FA Cup as test games for the NNL season where they are expected to pick the sole ticket to the playoffs in Southern Conference Group B4 and also stage a return to the Nigeria Premier Football League season when the current season ends.
“We are happy that they have started the competition very well but this is just a dress rehearsal to the ultimate which is a return to the NPFL,” Okoronkwo stated.
“The Imo Government under Distinguished Senator, Hope Uzodinma will provide the enabling environment and the welfare package but the club must reciprocate with good performance not only in the FA Cup but when the NNL season starts fully next weekend.”
Heartland FC will face 2021 Champions Amanda FC in the quarter final while they will begin their campaign in the 2023 NNL season with an away fixture against Abia Comets.
