.Wants Govt To Support Imo Teams In Aiteo Cup
Rtn Obidinma Onyeali KSC, President/CEO of Elkanah Onyeali Care Foundation EOCF has praised the effort of Heartland FC in the just concluded Imo State FA Cup.
Heartland FC defeated debutants, Fr Eburuaja FC of Njaba 3-0 in the final of the 2023 Imo FA Cup decided at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri on Tuesday, March 14, 2023.
Praising the comprehensive performance of the Naze Millionaires who were once coached by his late father back in the early 80’s, Rtn Obidinma said with such convincing performance by the team in the 4 matches played so far on their way to winning the 2023 Imo FA Cup, the team has shown their desire to make the state and it’s fans happy urging them to carry the zeal and spirit to their NNL league games which begins for them March 22 with an away game against Abia Comets FC in Umuahia.
“Following the results posted so far on their way to the final and the comprehensive victory over their opponents, I feel the team is set for the new season.
“It reminds me of the stories of how my late Dad, Elkanah Onyeali on return from Europe where he played as one of the first blacks in Tranmere Rovers FC, England brought his wealth of experience alongside other coaches in the 80’s to lead the team to many successful outings.
“Am sure with enough motivation, the team has all it takes to make a quick return back to the NPFL.
Three second half goals including an icing on the cake from captain of the day, Chidiebere Ajoku helped the five time league champions to overcome the resilient fight by the Njaba LGA based side who were well motivated by a Catholic Priest and owner of the club, Rev Fr Eburuaja.
In a related development, the President/CEO of Elkanah Onyeali Care Foundation EOCF who also doubles as the parent company of Elkanah Onyeali FC Academy has urged the Imo state government to try and provide financial support for the teams who have qualified to represent the state at this year’s Aiteo Cup competition later this year.
“As also congratulate the teams who have made it to the National Federation Cup competition now known as Aiteo Cup, it would be good and a moral boost if the State government can provide for the teams, some financial support as they prepare for the national Aiteo Cup Competition.
“It would not just help the state teams to be motivated, it would equally encourage private investors in the state to continue to help the youths through sports as well as help the team to do well and bring honours to the state.
Heartland FC and Fr FC will represent the state in the male category while Heartland Queens FC and First Mahi Babes wi represent the state in the Female category.
Heartland FC reached the semi final of last seasons Competition before the organisers Calle off the tournament as they ran out of time to produce the nations representative at the CAF Confederation Cup CCF, for 2023.
Kwara United who placed 4th on the league were later submitted by NFF as the nations flag bearer in this year’s CCF.
