Rivers Angels FC claimed the first AITEO Cup trophy on Wednesday after defeating hard-fighting Ibom Angels 3-1 on a penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw at the Rwang Pam Stadium, Jos.
The battle by both teams proved the two fully merited their places in the final, with Rivers Angels scoring first through Falconets’ ace Cynthia Aku before the girls from Uyo replied through the energetic Gloria Ogbonna.
Hard as they fought, Ibom Angels, whose brothers Akwa United claimed the men’s title on Sunday in Lagos, also through a penalty shoot-out against Niger Tornadoes, proved deficient in taking penalty kicks and lost the opportunity to take the glittering trophy provided by new sponsors AITEO.
Rivers Angels pocketed the N10 million champions’ prize, while the Ibom girls went home with N5 million. Ibom Angels’ Charity Reuben was voted Most Valuable Player.
Bayelsa Queens, who lost out in the quarterfinals, won the Fairplay Trophy, while Tochukwu Oluehi of Rivers Angels won the Best Goalkeeper award and the Best Coach diadem went to the winning tactician Edwin Okon.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Government has congratulated Rivers Angels Sports Club for emerging champions of the 2017 Aiteo Cup.
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike expressed happiness that Rivers Angels have continued to be worthy ambassadors of the state with their superlative displays on the field of play.
He said his administration will continue to support the ladies in their quest to win laurels for the good people of Rivers State.
Wike reiterated the commitment of his administration to the promotion of sport as a tool of empowerment.
Also speaking on the club’s victory, Rivers State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Boma Iyaye expressed happiness at the feat of the team.
Hon Iyaye also lauded the players and their handlers for justifying the confidence reposed in them by the Rivers State Government.
He also noted that the government will continue to support and invest in the team.
“I want to commend Rivers Angels FC for this laudable feat.
Source: NFF
