……….As Delta United Pips Ine Stars In Ceremonial Tie
Last year finalist, Delta United of Delta State on Monday defeated Ine Stars of Edo State by two goals to nil in a ceremonial game to kick start the second edition of the NDDC U17 Peace Cup football competition in Asaba, Delta State.
The victory was sequel to the opening ceremony of the tournament, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium.
Delta United took control from the blast of the whistle and launched a counter almost immediately, which led to a penalty, and was beautifully converted.
Few minutes later, Delta United scored their second goal after Ine Stars goal keeper fumbled with the ball, and the rushing attacker made no mistake in tapping in from close range.
However, the outcome of the match which was used to commence the competition will amount to nothing, as both teams will eventually be trade tackkes tomorrow in Ogwashi Uku at 7:30am
Earlier, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Umana O. Umana, who was represented by Mr Matthew Pukuma James, in his speech, commended organisers, the Grassroot Sports Federation of Nigeria, for their initiative in putting the event together, stating that it will go along way in uniting the Niger Delta region, which was inline with the cardinal policy of establishing the interventionist agency.
Declaring the competition open, the Minister called for the collective support of the tournament for it to succeed, and urged the participating teams to put up their best performance, as well as ensure fair play at all times, so as to key into the mantra of the competition which was to promote peace across the region.
“I would like to first and foremost thank the Government and the good people of Delta State for allowing a conducive atmosphere to host this special event in a period of National insecurity and economic challenge, this good gesture is indeed, worthy of commendation.”
“I would also like to commend the organisers, GRASSROOTS SPORTS FEDERATION, for this laudable initiative which not only promotes peace in the Niger Delta Region, but also provides an opportunity for young and talented lads to showcase their talents to the world.
“I am particularly delighted to inform you that, this initiative is in line with the mandate of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs in the promotion of Peace and Security as well as developing the human capital in the Niger Delta Region.”
The opening ceremony witnessed the official Kick off performed by the representative of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr Matthew Pukuma James, also saw the unveiling of the participating teams.
Ex- internationals present at the event included the legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, Sam Sodje, and Baldwin Bazuaye.
