In a quest to have a successful and hitch-free season, Abubakar Bala has urged the Tornadoes Management Committee (TMC) to do more for the club, as he dedicated the Gusau/Ahlan Cup pre-season tourney trophy to Honourable Adamu Aliyu.

Speaking on his team’s feat as they countdown to the December 28th, NPFL new season kickoff date, Bala has assured Tornadoes fans to expect the best from his team.

“Winning the Gusau/Ahlan preseason tournament is the right tonic my team needs going into the season.

“I recall Honourable Adamu Aliyu’s words of encouragement after we lost our first group match to Gombe United, that it would end up being a blessing in disguise and we will win the cup, that has now come to pass.

“This victory has exposed our weaknesses and strength which we shall work on, as the team is a work in progress.

“I want to sincerely appeal to the management in ensuring the club continues its preparations and does not relax in its oars, just as it happened last season because of lack of funds which was responsible for the bad start and genesis of our relegation struggles.

“We appeal to all fans and supporters to solidly get behind the team with prayers for our only State darling club.

“We are sincerely grateful to the Chairman of the Tornadoes Management Committee and his members, as we dedicate this trophy to Honourable Adamu Aliyu as his support is our source of inspiration, as we wish ourselves the best in the new season.”

Bala whose coaching pedigree, speaks volumes defied the odds to beat other teams for the 2022 edition of the Gusau/Ahlan Cup.

The Ikon Allah had started their campaign on a shocking 3-0 loss to fellow Nigeria Professional Football League side Gombe United, but that did not deter the team from cruising to the final. And as faith would have it, they came face-to-face with the Savannah Scorpions in an epic battle for the top prize.

Tornadoes turned the tie around this time, as they took the game to Gombe United and won the trophy.

Their efforts paid off in the 38th minute with the only goal of the game. A fast break away, after they turn defending into the attack, saw David Okoromi fouled in the box, leaving the referee to point to the spot for a penalty and Waheed Adebayo made no mistake in putting the ball at the back of the goal.

  Gusau/Ahlan Cup, Hon. Adamu Aliyu, Minna, Niger State, NPFL, Tornadoes Management Committee