June 15, (THEWILL) – Krusaders Feeders FC of Peretrogbene have emerged champions of Ekeremor Local Government Area in the first local government final in the ongoing Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, aka Prosperity Cup, decided in Ekeremor town.
Krusaders Feeders beat Petroleum Boys FC 2-1 to lift the trophy. Handsome Surveyor put the Peretrogbene-based side ahead in the 17th minute from a rebounded effort to send the Krusaders Feeders fans into celebration.
However, Jeremiah Ebiye restored parity for the Petroleum Boys in the 25th minute from a solo move as he intelligently beat Krusaders Feeders goalkeeper, ThankGod Aloysius, to make it 1-1 after an entertaining first half.
The Petroleum Boys, in the second half, almost went ahead twice but were caught short by the defensive solidity of Wilfred Bomo and Pina Sagbamaowei who tamed Solohit Akpokabowei and Jeremiah Ebiye throughout the game.
Sergeant Owoye restored the lead for Krusaders Feeders in the 67th minute from Godgift Okilo’s cross after the Petroleum Boys goalkeeper parried the ball close to his box as he beautifully slotted in the ball for coach Genesis’ side.
A trophy and prize money was presented to the winner and the runner-up by the Director General of the tournament, Mr. Ono Akpe, alongside the Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area, Hon. Onniye Isaac
The final, which witnessed an electrifying display from both sides, was watched by the Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area, Vice-chairperson, Supervisory Councilors and other political appointees.
The Commissioner for Sports Development, Daniel Igali, represented by the Head of Human Resources, Ministry of Sports, Mr. Mike Ede-Alakere, commended the lads for the show of dexterity, stating that he was impressed with the quality of football displayed by both sides.
Speaking, the Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area hailed the Governor for engaging the youths positively through sports, describing it as a veritable investment for youths.
The Council boss, who described Ekeremor as the home of football in Bayelsa State, asserted that the council was leaving nothing to chance to consolidate the achievements of the Governor in the sports sector. He expressed optimism that both teams will progress to the final of the tournament.
He appreciated the organisers of the tournament for the sustainability of the competition over the years, stating that he was pleased with its progress.
The Director General of the tournament, Mr. Ono Akpe, while appreciating the Governor for his untiring love for the development of sports, said he was optimistic that the tournament would produce future stars for the nation.
He equally commended the players of both teams for their show of professionalism throughout the game.
Earlier, the tournament Director, Mr. Perela Aboroson, thanked the council chairman for ensuring that the venue was ready on time despite the short notice, noting that the target of the tournament was to showcase young Bayelsans to European clubs.
The Local Government Area Finals will continue on Saturday and Sunday in Sagbama and Brass LGAs.
About the Author
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
