Reigning Imo FA Cup holders, Amanda FC of Orlu have emerged winners of the 2019 Bet9ja Super Six Zonal Football Tournament following a 5-4 penalty shootout win against Parkas FC, Completesports.com reports.
The regulation time match ended on a scoreless note at Orji Primary School, near Owerri, before Amanda won it via shootout.
It was the second trophy that Amanda FC have won within six months this year, having earlier edged NPFL side, Heartland, in the 2019 Imo FA Cup final.
Organisers, Bet9ja, say the annual tournament was a way to reward their loyal customers for keeping faith in their online sports betting.
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The champions smiled home with The Star prize of N400, 000 while runners up received N200, 000.
Obinna Nwanire, proprietor of the victorious team said his team has nothing more to prove again in the state.
He said for a club from a remote part of the state to sweep two major trophies in the state within six months speaks volume of the quality of the club.
He recalled how the modest club came to become a major talking point in the state football circle.
“After the 2018 Christmas football tournament back home in the village, the players came together, pleaded with me to help them actualise their God given talents,” Nwanire began in an emotion ladder tone.
“I was scared, but their plight touched me. Being a simple minded person, with modest business, I knew how difficult it would be, but the how can I ignore these young, talented players to waste their God given talents?
“I decided to give it a trial. The burden of catering for over 30 players everyday has not been easy, but I’m happy that the boys have turned from village champions to state champions.”
He solicited for support from wealthy individuals, as well as corporate organizations including the ‘Orluzurume’ Socio cultural organization and sports loving governor of the state, His Excellency Governor Emeka Ihedioha, to come to their aid as Amanda FC aim to delve into full professionalism next season.
