By Ambrose Ologide
Some members of Delta Steel Company ( DSC ) Ex- Footballers Association have called for the development of soccer at the grassroot in Delta State.
They made the call in a media chat with our correspondent during a novelty football match between the elder and younger members of the association at Camp Extension , DSC Steel Township 3 Football pitch , Orhuwhorun , Udu Local Government Area on Monday 12th June , 2023 ( Democracy Day )
Those who spoke were the Chairman of the association, Gabriel Choja , Efe Banwa , Austin Aruogu Paul , Voke Akemu and Ezekiel Biabor.
They opined that development of the round leather game at the grass will improve the standard of the game , meaningfully engage youths , promote health and boost the economy of the state.
However the Chairman of the association, Gabriel Choja bitterly noted that soccer facilities were noting to write home about in Delta State.
He therefore called on government and public spirited Nigerians to develop the game in Delta State.
Choja had disclosed that those that played the tension soaked match were members of age 45 years and above versus members of age 35 years and below.
Choja who explained that the novelty match was in celebration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day , proudly disclosed that most members of the association were exinternationals .
Meanwhile the match watched by a capacity crowd ended 1-0 in favour of the elder members .
The goal was scored at 15 into the 2nd half by an ex international David Ogaga ( aka Omo gamble ) through a well taken freekick few metres outside the 18 yard box.
Members and guests were later treated to a reception shortly after the match at the side of the soccer field
The match ended 1 – 0 in their favour.
