July 30, (THEWILL) – The fifth edition of Nigeria’s largest grassroots football competition, the Bayelsa State Governor’s Football Tournament, also known as “Prosperity Cup”, came to an end on Sunday, with Crusaders Feeders FC winning the tourney via penalty shootout.
It was indeed an entertaining final, filled with interesting and breathtaking moments, showcasing the best of skills, determination and finesse, but the Ekeremor based team won 4-3 on penalties, after a one-all draw at regulation time.
Crusaders Feeders attacking trio of Junior Christopher, Moses Anthony and Akpos Godbless, mounted pressure
In the 20th minute, Crusader’s Ebiotu Boleigha was close with a lob, but went wide.
Crusaders Feeders drew first blood in the 23rd minute. Ebiotu Boleigha clinical pass met Moses Anthony, who back-heeled to Junior Christopher and the top striker didn’t hesitate to place the ball to the left side of the goalkeeper, giving his team the lead, with the first half ending one nil.
At resumption, both teams increased their tempo in search for goal, but it was De Grace FC that found the back of the net in the 56th minute through bulky attacker, Solohit Foluwa, whose beautiful left curve couldn’t be stopped by Crusaders Feeders’ Goalie, Gas Gbansele.
The game went to the shootout, and it ended in favour of the Peretorugbene side.
In the female category, Golden Sun Sports Club emerged winners of the maiden edition, after defying the downpour to beat tournament favourites, Crystal Stars Football Club, three nil (3-0).
During his remark, Governor Douye Diri said he was proud of all participating teams, coaches, officials and organisers for their sportsmanship throughout the competition.
“Your guidance, mentorship have not only produced talents, but discipline and focus on the players. This tournament has served the purpose of discovering potentials and talents in Bayelsa.
“It is my firm believe that through your support, this competition will nuture the talents that will proudly represent the state and our country, Nigeria.”
The Governor announced that soonest, the state will build ten playing football centres across Bayelsa to serve the purpose of hosting more of such competitions, adding that empowering youth remains a sure way to deviate their minds towards social vices.
President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), assured of his support to see that available scouts graced subsequent events for hunting of future Stars.
Speaking at the event, Director General of competition, Ono Akpe, said the tournament has since become a hunting ground for teams across the country, with some already plying their trade abroad, adding that soonest, the Prosperity Cup will become the most popular grassroots football competition in Africa.
Crusaders Feeders FC were awarded a trophy and N5 million for their victory, second place De Grace FC of Yenagoa received N2.5 million, third place team, Agbere FC of Sagbama, went home with N1.5 million, while fourth place, Dream Boys Academy of Odi (Kolokuma/Opokuma), received N500,000.
Winners of the female category, Golden Sun Sports Club, got N250,000 for their victory, runners-up Crystal Stars FC received N150,000, Peremo Soccer Academy were awarded N80,000, while fourth place, Niger Delta University Queens, got N50,000.
Junior Christopher of Crusader Feeders FC emerged the highest goal scorer with twelve goals.
