By Joseph Isokpehi
Makanaki Fc Ekpoma once again proved their mentle as the best club side in Esan Land as they emerge champions of the maiden Edition of Kiza Champions Cup For youth club sides in Edo Central.
In the final match of the kiza champions Cup which held at the Uromi Football Academy stadium, off ilushi road, Uromi on Sunday, the pride of Ekpoma, Makanaki Fc defeated hard fighting Youngs Boys of Uromi 9-8 via kicks from the penalty marks after scores at regulation time stood at 1-1.
Ealier in the day, Diamond Fc Uromi claimed the bronze medals 5-4 on penalties against Ramosco Football Academy, igueben after full time scores stood goaless.
Organised by the Edo central representative at the Edo state football Association Faith Ojeaga and the five Local FA chairmen from Edo central, the closing events was witnessed by a large turn out of football faithfuls in uromi and its environs, the winner of the tournament Makanaki Fc were presented with the giant trophy, medals and other souvenirs including the top prize of #700.000.00, while the runner up Young Boys Fc uromi went home with the sum of #300.000.00 and third place winner Diamond Fc Uromi smiled home with the sum of #200.000.00.
Akhimien Godswill Ovie of Makanaki Fc Ekpoma was voted the MVP of the tournament, while Power Iyoha of Kiza Fc Uromi emerge the top scorer of the competition with six goals and Embrace Aneke of Young Boys Fc Uromi got the best goalkeeper of the tournament award.
An elated Cup donor and sponsor of the tournament, Okowele Jeffrey who is the chief executive officer of Kiza fast food, oil and Gas, praised the organisers of the tournament and commended the participating teams for their dedication and commitment towards the success of the event aimed at uniting the youth of Esan land and also to encourage grassroots football in the district. while congratulating the winners he advised the youths to be disciplined all times and shun social vices, he promised to keep sponsoring event to help fish out hidden talents in the area and promote grassroots football.
The epic final was witnessed by some stakeholders which includes Engr John Oziegbe, comrade Babayaro Eghokhan and the five Local FA chairmen in Edo central.
