By SHEDRACK FRANK

Crusaders Feeders FC has emerged the winners of the fifth edition of Bayelsa’s largest grassroots football competition, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament.

The event ended on Sunday through a penalty shootout to decide the winners.

It was indeed an entertaining outing filled with interesting moments.

The battle showcased the best of skills, determination and finesse which eventually favoured the Ekeremor based team who won by 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw at regulation time.

Crusaders Feeders drew first blood in the 23^rd minute. Boleigha’s clinical pass met Moses Anthony who back heeled to Junior Christopher, and the top striker didn’t hesitate to place the ball at the left side of the goalkeeper to give his team the lead.

The first half ended 1-0.

On resumption, both teams increased their tempo in search for goals, but it was De Grace FC that found the net in the 56^th minute through bulky attacker, Solohit Foluwa, whose beautiful left curve couldn’t be stopped by Crusaders Feeders’ goalkeeper, Gas Gbansele.

In the female category, Golden Sun Sports Club emerged winners of the maiden edition, after defying the downpour to beat tournament favourites, Crystal Stars Football Club by 3-0

During his remark, Gov. Douye Diri said he was proud of all participating teams, coaches, officials and organisers for their sportsmanship throughout the competition.

“Your guiding mentorships have 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 believe that through your support, this competition will nurture the talents that will proudly represent the state and our country Nigeria,” he said.

He added that empowering youth remained a sure way to deviate their minds from social vices.

Director-General of the competition Ono Akpe said the tournament had since become a hunting ground for teams across the country, with some already playing their trade abroad.

He added that soonest, the Prosperity Cup would become the most popular grassroots football competition in Africa.

Crusaders Feeders FC were awarded a trophy and N5 million for their victory; second place De Grace FC of Yenagoa received N2.5 million.

The third place team, Agbere FC of Sagbama went home with N1.5 million, while fourth place, Dream Boys Academy of Odi (Kolokuma/Opokuma), got N500,000.

Winners of the female category, Golden Sun Sports Club, got N250,000 for their victory; runner-up, Crystal Stars FC, received N150,000.

Peremo Soccer Academy were awarded N80,000, while fourth place winners Niger Delta University Queens, got N50,000.

Junior Christopher of Crusaders Feeders FC emerged the highest goal scorer with 12 goals. (NAN)

•Bayelsa Governor Diri handing over the Prosperity Cup trophy to Crusaders Feeders FC captain

Update news