Heartland FC striker, Kelechi Alino, wants to finish season on a good note

Posted : 08 June 2024

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Heartland FC attacker, Kelechi David Alino, says he is extremely delighted with his debut for the Naze Millionaires but was left shattered that his first game with the club ended with a defeat in Uyo against Akwa United.

Alino has spent some time with Heartland FC since his arrival from the United States but has not been able to taste action because of some issues he had with adapting to his new environment.

He finally showed signs that he was ready for top-flight action following his recent impressive form in training sessions and having overcome his initial challenges. He was listed by Heartland FC head coach, Christian Obi, for the crucial league tie at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Monday.

Alino started in the first 11 in his debut game but never showed any nerves of a player playing his first game. He was on top of his game throughout his stay on the pitch before he was substituted in the second half after he had run the Akwa United wing-back ragged.

The former captain of the New York City FC Under 17 said he hopes to give a good account of himself in the remaining part of the season if he is fielded.

"It was a superb debut for me, and I am glad I did my best but unhappy that it wasn't the result we wanted. We needed a win and started the game well," Alino said.

"I will be willing to give my best if I am called upon in the remaining games of the season. I want to contribute my quota to the club until the end of the season."

Kelechi's parents are Nelson and Imma Alino, and he has four other siblings, namely Joy, Nelson Jr., Christian, and Brittany.

Alino, however, said he would be looking forward to another game opportunity against Doma United at Owerri's Dan Anyiam Stadium on Sunday in an NPFL Matchday 35 tie.

Regarding the all-important relegation battle fight, the Naze Millionaires playing at home need the match as they expect to continue the fight against relegation.

Heartland FC is welcoming Doma United FC, another club from the Northern State, after they defeated Gombe United FC 3-0 in Owerri.

Doma United FC and Gombe United FC share the same town and the same stadium at Pantami Stadium. Unfortunately, Gombe United have been relegated from the elite league, while Doma United FC is not faring any better as they are also struggling at the base of the NPFL table.

Heartland FC is in 19th position, with 32 points from 34 games, having seven wins, 11 draws, and 16 losses.

Doma United FC, the most surprising team of the 2023/2024 NPFL season, has seen a state of falling from grace to grass, from a team that was once chasing the league title to a team now fighting relegation.

The Savannah Tigers are 16th on the log, having 43 points from 34 matches, with 11 wins, 10 draws, and 13 losses.

It's make or break for both clubs as they face the threat of relegation.

Head to head

Heartland FC and Doma United FC have only played once, which ended in a victory for the latter.

Heartland FC striker, Kelechi Alino, wants to finish season on a good note

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