The second leg of this seasons Nigeria National League derby between Eket based clubs FC ONE Rockets and Vandrezzer FC takes place today (Sunday May 21, 2023).
Here is a preview of the top-drawer Group B1 clash.
MATCH DETAILS: The NNL “Eket derby” will take place at the Eket Stadium which serves as home-ground for both teams this season. Kickoff is 4pm on Sunday May 21.
RECENT MEETINGS: FC ONE Rockets and Vandrezzer FC played out a 0-0 score in the first leg. That was preceded by a semi-final clash during the 2023 Akwa Ibom State FA Cup. FC ONE Rockets were 2-1 victors in that match.
GROUP B1 STANDINGS: Aside the expected banters of an emerging rivalry, the battle for promotion and relegation spots in Group B1 will shape the face of this game.
As it stands, FC ONE Rockets occupy top spot in the group, two points clear of Rovers FC of Calabar.
The Lions of Naija as Vandrezzer FC is nicknamed occupy 4th spot and have gathered 9-points to sit 8-points away from the Rockets (17points) ahead of the derby.
LIONS IN THE WAY OF ROCKETS PROMOTION HOPES: A run of four straight wins has placed FC ONE Rockets on the way to clinching the sole promotion playoff ticket from Group B1.
In the way of their lofty ambition will be the Lions of Naija who have endured a streak of disappointing results to sit just above the danger zone in the six-team group ahead of this penultimate fixture.
FC ONE ROCKETS FORM GUIDE: FC ONE Rocket 2-1 Warri Wolves, Vandrezzer FC 0-0 FC ONE Rocket, FC ONE Rocket 0-0 Rovers, FC Go-Round FC 2-1 FC ONE Rocket, FC ONE Rocket 3-1 Henserd FC, Henserd FC 2-3 FC ONE Rocket, FC ONE Rocket 2-0 Go-Round FC, Rovers FC 1-2 FC ONE Rocket.
VANDREZZER FC FORM GUIDE: Go-Round FC 1-3 Vandrezzer FC, Vandrezzer FC 0-0 FC ONE Rocket, Warri Wolves 1-1 Vandrezzer FC, Henserd FC 2-0 Vandrezzer FC, Vandrezzer FC 1-1 Rovers FC, Rovers FC 1-0 Vandrezzer FC, Vandrezzer FC 2-0 Henserd FC, Vandrezzer FC 0-1 Warri Wolves.
THE SUPPORT CAST: Aside their respective supporters clubs, Neutral Fans at the Eket Stadium will bear the crunch thoughts in this one. Cheer the Rockets and stand a chance of enjoying Nigeria Premier Football League Football next season or back the Lions to get points and secure their place in the second tier for next season?
PREDICTION: FC ONE Rockets have never lost to Vandrezzer FC before. Coach Ndubisi Ndah and his Indomitable charges are well motivated by their President and sole financier Rt. Hon Nse Essien, and so will be fired up to face the Niambele Mohammed tutored Vandrezzer FC.
FC ONE Rockets are favourites to win this one. Score Prediction: 2-1.