G-Innovation Football Club, Saturday at the Yabatech pitch, Yaba, Lagos, indeed, walked the talk by claiming the coveted trophy at the final match of the 18th edition of Bishop Mike Okonkwo Football Competition.
Fondly called the Conquistadors, the Chigozie Nwagwu-owned team lived up to its billings as firm favourites to win the competition, as it defeated hard-fighting Aux Exclusive Media FC 5-4 on penalties after playing out 1-1 in the regulation period.
In the end-to-end game that kept the guests and spectators on the edges of their seats, G-Innovation drew the first blood in the 29th minute of the first half through its fast-paced attacker Femi. The score line remained 1-0 in favour of the Conquistadors till the relentless attack of Aux Exclusive Media got the equalizer in the 72nd minute of the pulsating encounter.
And with the game ending in a draw, it was straight to penalty kicks. G-Innovation boys converted all their kicks to take the match on a 5-4 victory.
It was also a day of due recognition for the trio of G-Innovation, as Uche Ogbonna won the tournament’s MVP; Azeez Balogun won the best goalkeeper award and Olamilekan Abdulrasaq Musa, was announced the best coach of the competition.
Speaking with journalists at the end of the game, the obviously elated youthful club owner, Chigozie Nwagwu was quick to express his gratitude to God for his boy’s victory.
“We’re grateful to God for His grace and favour upon this team,” he remarked. “I must tell you, it wasn’t an easy game. But my boys were resilient and determined to win the cup. I also say a big congratulations to the technical crew and the entire management of the team. This is the result of the commitment and hard work,” Nwagwu stated gleefully.
He went on to commend the organisers for putting up a near flawless competition in terms of officiating, organisation and discipline during the competition.
