The University of Benin Teaching Hospital Inter-Professional Veterans Football Championship started on a great note, especially with the defending champions Nigeria Medical Association Football Club, starting on a winning note.
Reacting to the organization, match results, expectations, and growth of the tournament, Platinumnewsng.com’s Nengi Ernest, had discussions with some key stakeholders of the tournament and state’s football.
The Chief Medical Director of the Hospital, who also doubles as the Chief coach of the NMA, Professor Darlington Obaseki, expressed relief and satisfaction with his teams performance.
“I feel relieved to have gotten a win and three points in our first game.”
“Cameroon FC is a very tactical team, but we decided to make a quick transition into our attacking strength, which helped us.”
The CMD said they would go into the next match with debutants, Golden Age FC with the same momentum.
Mkar Reuben, last edition’s highest goal scorer, who put up a top-notch display, scoring a goal and providing an assist, praised his teammates and their efforts, saying, “The teamwork was fantastic, and we look to improve in the next game”.
Chairman Organizing Committee, Dr Scott Omorogbe, spoke on the key changes in this year’s tournament.
“The prize money has been increased, online recruitment, registration and screening were also introduced and there are debutants — Panthers FC and Golden Age FC”.
He also identified NMA FC as one of the favourites for the title, but it will be a tough tournament.
Chairman of the Edo State Football Association, Mr Fred Newton, also spoke on the championship growth and the importance of football.
“I’m proud to have been part of this tournament since its inception. Continuity is key in football, and I’m grateful to the CMD and the sponsors of the events, too.
Mr Fred Newton also emphasised the importance of football as a unifying factor and was appreciative of the media and fans who came out for the first set of games.
Having clocked one year in office last November, Fred expressed his gladness that there have been numerous tournaments since he assumed office as the chairman of Edo FA, keying into the vision for the youth to be active through sports.
