He
is one of the underrated wingers in the Nigeria Premier League (NPL). Gomo
Onduku (standing 1st from right) talks to SuperSport.com following his goal-winning performance for
Sharks at Heartland in Week 18.
The
former Bayelsa United man speaks on Sharks, their trophy hoodoo on the domestic
front, Victor Ezeji and the likely winners of this season's Premier League.
SuperSport.com: What's the
feeling like being among the goals lately for Sharks?
Onduku: I'm very,
very happy with my progress this season and I believe it can only get better as
the season continues.
SuperSport.com: So is it safe
to say we will see more goals from you as the season progresses?
Onduku: Of course.
It's just unfortunate that we did not start the league well this season. We had
some ups and downs but we are trying to put our acts together now.
SuperSport.com: And what do
you make of your winning goal against Heartland on Sunday? Were you confident
of beating Heartland in that game?
Onduku: I was very
sure because in the past two seasons we have not lost to them in their home. So
when we arrived (in Calabar for the game) that was the first thing that came to
our minds. We were determined to go all out to win.
SuperSport.com: At some point
in the season, Bright Ejike seemed to be the only player scoring the goals for
Sharks, were you worried at that point that you couldn't share in that
responsibility?
Onduku: I was not
because I've provided assists for three of his goals. He's a great striker no
doubt but I always tell him to compose himself because I believe that he will
be among the highest goalscorers this season.
SuperSport.com: People have
said the absence of Victor Ezeji might affect Sharks up front this season. Do
you agree with that school of thought?
Onduku: I don't
really agree with that. He is the most brilliant striker I've seen in the NPL,
and I must admit that we are missing him now but we still have players who are
capable of filling the big space he has left. I know when he comes back he will
join us again.
SuperSport.com: Sharks have never
won any major trophy in Nigeria that is talking about the league and the FA
Cup. Do you often think about this or does it give you concern?
Onduku: Of course I
am really worried about that though as a player I have won the league with my
former team, Bayelsa United. Personally my aim is to win the FA Cup (now known
as the Federation Cup).
SuperSport.com: In essence
are you saying Sharks' most realistic chance of winning a trophy this season is
in the FA Cup?
Onduku: Not actually
but personally that's my aim. Last season in the FA Cup I wanted to win it. At
that time I just returned from trials in South Africa and I played in the FA
Cup and we did well. I scored three goals in the group stage - two against Sunshine
Stars and one against Bayelsa United. But unfortunately we lost to Ocean Boys
in the quarterfinals.
SuperSport.com:
Which opponent has been your toughest this season? And why?
Onduku: Kwara United
have been the toughest for me. They played us well with a good strategy coupled
with a strong midfield and defence.
SuperSport.com: And which
team is your easiest opponent?
Onduku: (laughs)
Heartland.
SuperSport.com: Why do you
consider Heartland the easiest you've played so far?
Onduku: They are the
easiest because we outplayed them apart from our team winning the game.
SuperSport.com: This season
so far we have seen Rangers, Enyimba, Kano Pillars, Gombe United and even
Dolphins lead the table. In your own view which team or teams would you tip to
win the league?
Onduku: I will give
it to Rangers or Enyimba but we are coming up too ahead of the second round.
The league is still open so I will include Sharks.
PROFILE
Date of birth: November 17,
1993
Place of
birth:
Ekeremor, Bayelsa State
Position: Left wing
Present club: Sharks (from
2009 till date)
Previous club(s): Bayelsa
United (from 2007 - 2009)
Honour(s): NPL winner
with Bayelsa United (2008/2009 season)
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