Defending Champions, Arsenal Kiddies Football Academy defeated hard fighting New Era Boys 3-2 in a cagging final yesterday to win the 4th edition of Dr. Chukwudi Ogbolu U12 Kids Cup (CKC).
The final match, which was watched by a capacity crowd at A-Division Police playing Field, saw Arsenal Kiddies take the lead in the 5th minute of first half.
In the 20th minute, after the interplay of brilliant passes, Arsenal Kiddies doubled their lead. At the resumption of the 2nd half, Arsenal Kiddies, growing in confidence continued to ask questions of their opponents.
Against the run of play, New Era Boys bounced on a loose ball following a defensive blunder by Arsenal Kiddies Boys to reduce the tally. Five minutes later, a penalty was awarded to the New Era Boys as a result of ball handling by an Arsenal Kiddies defender.
The equalizer by the New Era Boys changed the dynamic of the game. Coach Korede Cissey of Arsenal Kiddies made two tactical changes in the dying minutes of the game and this resulted in the third goal after an interchange of telegraphic passes by the Kiddies.
Credit must be given to the home Supporters of Arsenal Kiddies who conducted themselves with dignity and maturity throughout the duration of the game.
In his closing remarks at the occasion while promising to be physically present at the next year’s edition, the sponsor of the tournament, Dr. Chukwudi Ogbolu, a US- based Medical Practitioner/Philanthropist, congratulated all the participating teams and urged them to always put in their best.
He thanked the organizer of the tournament, LaLiga trained Coach, Soni Ahamioje for his love and passion in the development of football at the grassroots’.
Finally, he used the opportunity to wish all the players and club officials a Merry Christmas and a happy new year in advance.
The high points of this year’s edition were the conferment of the Special Life Patron Award on Dr. Chukwudi Ogbolu.
Huge cash prizes were given to the best four teams as well as presentation of certificates. Soccer gift items were given to the Most Valuable Player, Best Goalkeeper and Highest Goal Scorer of the tournament.
The Vice Chairman of the Kwara State Football Association, Bashorun Kayode Bankole, who was the Special Guest of Honour also donated cash to the four best teams.
