Yenagoa—The fifth edition of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament christened Prosperity Cup ended on Sunday, with Crusaders Feeders FC emerging winners.
The final which was played between the Crusaders Feeders FC of Ekeremor and the De Grace FC ended in a one whole draw after stoppage time and went to a penalty shootout which 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 favorites, 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 has 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 belief that through your support, this competition will nurture the talents that will proudly represent the state and our country Nigeria.”
Diri announced that, soonest, the state will build ten playing football centers across Bayelsa to serve the purpose of hosting more such competitions.
He added that empowering youth remains a sure way to deviate their minds towards social vices.
President of the Nigerian Football Federation assured of his support to see that available scouts graced subsequent events for hunting of future stars.
Speaking at the event, the Director General of the competition, Ono Akpe, said the tournament has since become a hunting ground for teams across the country, with some already plying their trade abroad.
He expressed hope that Prosperity Cup will become the most popular grassroots football competition in Africa.
Crusader Feeders FC was awarded a trophy and five million naira for their victory, while second place De Grace FC of Yenagoa received two million five hundred thousand naira.
The third place team, Agbere FC of Sagbama went home with one point five million naira, while fourth place, Dream Boys Academy of Odi (Kolokuma/Opokuma) received five hundred thousand naira.
Winners of the female category, Golden Sun Sports Club, got two hundred and fifty thousand naira for their victory, runner-up, Crystal Stars FC received one hundred and fifty thousand naira.
Meanwhile, Peremo Soccer Academy was awarded eighty thousand naira, while fourth place, Niger Delta University Queens, got fifty thousand naira.
Junior Christopher of Crusader Feeders FC emerged as the highest goal scorer with twelve goals.
