Quarterfinalists will begin to emerge from today as the Zenith Bank/Delta Principals’ Cup enters crucial stages in 10 centres scattered in various parts of state.
This edition which is the third in the series after its revival courtesy of a partnership between the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa government and the management of Zenith Bank is now in the zonal stage.
After the first round matches were played on Monday in various centres, some schools have taken a big step towards picking a ticket to feature in the last eight stage of the developmental tournament – the Zenith Bank /Delta Principals’ Cup aimed at helping talented footballers attain their potential from tender age.
Obule Intergrated School defeated Ogeh Ijoh Grammar school 3-0 in a match that saw Gift Edirin record a brace with one goal in each half (42nd and 60th minutes). It was Omom Simon who opened scoring in the 25th minute for the representatives of Sapele Local Government who will now need one win in their match today to book a quarter-final place.
Proprietor of the school, Chief Charles Ufuoma Obule, said the players were already motivated to get the results for final stages of the Zenith Bank /Delta Principals’ Cup.
“We have prepared them well to get the results and I believe they also have the talents to go all the way,” Chief Obule said.
In another match of the Zenith Bank /Delta Principals’ Cup, Aniocha North defeated Ika North East representatives 2-1 to also keep their last eight ticket alive. Ukwani defeated Isoko South 1-0, Isoko North beat Patani also 1-0 while Warri South recorded the same slim victory over Uwvie.
Udokwa West and Bomadi played a goalless draw just as Ughelli North and Burutu ended their encounter 1-1.
The second round of matches today will be decisive for all teams as two wins will be enough to move on while those yet to win must win well to remain in the contest.
“The competition is getting more interesting now and the standard is very high even beyond our expectations. The players are very happy. We thank governor Okowa and the sponsors Zenith Bank for keeping faith with this event in the past three years. It can only get better, “ head of the organizing team, Tony Pemu said of the Zenith Bank /Delta Principals’ Cup on Tuesday.
