Crusaders FC of Peretorugbene has been crowned the 2025 champions of Ekeremor Local Government Area in Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup.
Crusaders FC beat Youbolobo FC of Agge one-nil to lift the trophy in an encounter decided at the Ayamasa field. Vincent Great’s late goal gave the Peretorugbene-based side the slim victory.
Crusaders FC have now joined Adaka FC of Kaiama, who defeated Sampou FC of Sampou by three goals to one to emerge champions in their local government final.
Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area, Hon. Onniye Isaac, in a remark, said he was pleased with the level of football artistry displayed, describing both sides as victors and urged them to give Ekeremor LGA a good representation when the round of 32 begins.
Hon. Onniye called on youths in the local government areas to see sports, particularly football as a veritable means of earning a living, describing football as big business.
He expressed appreciation to the governor, Senator Douye Diri, and the tournament organisers for creating a platform for the youth to showcase their talents.
In post match interview with newsmen Crusaders FC’s Assistant coach, Nelson Abuwa stated that he was happy with the victory, adding that they would now shift their attention to the round of 32.
Head coach of Youbolobo FC, Nayo Ojay, said the LGA final has prepared their minds on what to expect in the round of 32 and beyond.
He, however, noted that he was excited to get to the final of the local government area championship for the first time in their history.
Champions Crusaders FC smiled home with the sum of one million naira (#1,000,000) while second-placed Youbolobo FC got five hundred thousand naira (#500,000)
Action moves to Nembe Local Government Area on Saturday, 10th of May, 2025, as Nembe City battles hard-fighting Okoroba FC by 2.00 p.m. at the Nembe City Stadium, Nembe.
