By Laurence Izegbu
The grand finale of the Aniocha North Football Tournament sponsored by Hon. Kanyinebi Mmobuosi took place yesterday, February 19, 2023 at Gbonoza Primary School Onicha-Ugbo.
The finals which saw Obomkpa and Issele Uku slugging it out for the ultimate prize was a terrific display of rare soccer artistry as both teams comprised of talented youths mesmerized the invited guests with thrilling action.
As the whistle went off to signify the end of the first half, both teams were goalless as they found it tough to break through each other’s defense to convert chances to goal.
As the players returned to the field of play for the second half of the game, Issele Uku came out firing from all cylinders. They obviously must have gotten some heavy directives from their coach as they tackled their opponents better, with superlative ball control.
However, the young Obomkpa boys proved to be just as prepared, if not more skillful, with accurate passes.
Obomkpa players swallowed the pressure excellently and contained the dreaded Issele Uku team, gradually deflating the tempo of the game until they had it in their firm grasp.
The entertaining match was dragged to a goalless draw after 90 minutes, resulting into a decision via a Penalty shoot out.
At the end of the encounter, Obomkpa emerged victorious as the result stood at 4-3.
Football development has become a huge source of wealth creation across the globe in the last 3 decades.
This has necessitated a situation where football scouts are visible at soccer games, screening to pick skillful players who might be sent abroad for trials.
The Sponsor of this successful tournament, HON. KANYINEBI MMOBUOSI JNR., was a House of Representatives aspirant under the PDP during the last primaries election but lost out to Hon. Ndudi Elumelu.
Over time, Mr. Mmobuosi has proven the depth of his comprehension of what youth development and empowerment entails.
Every project he has embarked upon since he ventured into politics have indicated his capacity and readiness to develop the youths and create employment for all.
Altogether, It was a well-organized event which even had the Obi of Onicha-Ugbo, Obi Victor Chukwumalieze, in attendance.
Also in attendance were JA Kachikwu Esq, the Okwelegwe of Onicha-Ugbo, Chief Ebi Odeigah, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Member representing Aniocha North Local Government Area in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Kevin Okwechime, Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government Area, Mr. Laurence Izegbu, Governor Okowa’s Aide on Local Content, Chief Carl Nwawolo, Steve Kachikwu, PDP Ward 2 Chairman, Chief Henry Nzekwue as well as many other dignitaries.
Cash gifts were presented to the winners and runners up.
The Delta State Local Content Agency highly commends the effort of Hon. Kanyinebi Mmobuosi Jnr. and the organisers of this momentous event.