Umuosu defeated Umuagungolori Obiohuru 2-0 to lift the maiden edition of the Coral Football League trophy at Williams Memorial School, Afugiri in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Speaking during the presentation of medals and prizes, the sponsor of the competition, Dr Charles Iheanyi Ukeagu, addressed the gathering, stating that the Coral Football League was organised in honour of his late mother, Elder Mrs Margaret Ukeagu.
The donor described the tournament as a celebration of football, unity and shared joy, commending the participating teams for their discipline, entertaining brand of play and display of sportsmanship.
Dr Ukeagu commended the dignitaries who graced the final, including the immediate past Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Orji, former ASEPA General Manager Chief Eze Okwulehie, Mr Obi Onwuzuruike, Mr Emeka Elias, High Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere, former member who represented Umuahia North State Constituency Chief Kelechi Onuzuruike, founder of Don FM Radio Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, widely known as Don Lulu, and other distinguished guests.
He revealed that the league would become an annual event, with plans to increase prize money in future editions.
According the donor, the peaceful conduct of players and supporters throughout the competition, without any incidents of violence or disorder, was a source of pride and encouragement.
Dr Ukeagu also appreciated the organising committee, officials from the NPLF, the referees and the match commissioner, Mr Ukaegbu Jonathan, saying the tournament is a true symbol of unity, brotherhood and oneness in the Afugiri community.
On his part, Rt Hon Chinedum Orji, who was assisted by High Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere during the presentation of medals to winners, lauded Umuosu for scoring what he described as clean and quality goals.
He commended the organisers for their co-ordination and pledged continued support for the competition, while urging youths to channel their energy into sports and positive pursuits.
In their separate speeches, Mr Iheanacho Uchenna, President of the Ohuhu Welfare Union Youth Wing, and Mr Collins Utah, praised Dr Ukeagu and other contributors for staging a tournament that brought life, excitement and homecoming joy to the community during the festive period.
During the thrilling encounter, Umuagungolori Obiohuru at the opening stages, showed intent, pressing high and moving the ball with confidence.
As they could not take their chances, Umuosu, gradually came into the game, tightening their shape, controlling the midfield, winning all duels and dictating the tempo of the game.
Umuosu continued with their pressing, moving the ball quickly with great intent. It was not long that they scored two well taken goals, crafted with patience and sublime finish to the excitement of fans and dignitaries.
At the blast of the final whistle, Umuosu stood tall as deserved champions, lifting the trophy and pocketing the top cash prize of one million naira.
On the hand, Umuagungolori Obiohuru, who emerged second best on the day, finished runners up and received seven hundred thousand naira, while Umuchukwu Umuekwule claimed third place and a reward of five hundred thousand naira, rounding off a fiercely contested tournament that kept the community alive.
Newsbuka reports that the Most valuable player, Azubike uchechukwu David, best goal keeper, Odinma Stephen Iroatunmere and hghest goal scorer, Ahamefule Chibuike were also recognised and honoured during the event
Coral Football League: Umuosu Village Shows Class to Lift Maiden Trophy
- Advertisement -
