By Nelson Dafe, Benin City on March 25, 2016

The Edo State Challenge Cup, also known as the FA Cup, kicked off earlier in the week. Nigerian Division One side Bendel Insurance on Monday ensured they avoided the embarrassment of last year when they were knocked out of the tournament in the first round.

This time, Insurance made easy work of their first round opponents Sir Wota FC, winning by an impressive 5-0.

Coach Roland Ewere-tutored Insurance raced to a comfortable 2-0 lead in the first half and completed the rout as a young and physically undeveloped Sir Wota side tired out badly in the intense heat of the Benin City afternoon.

The Challenge Cup first round of matches have produced a lot of goals so far. On Wednesday evening, new outfit Saviours FC walloped Espanyol 8-0. Saviours caused a stir in the transfer market as they snapped up a player who was the fulcrum of BJ Foundation’s surprise triumph in the competition last year.

Blessed Iyamu opted to play for Saviours FC this year and immediately showed his worth in his new team as his power and optional sense in the defensive midfield area helped Saviours to an impressive start.

Saviours FC play an attractive brand of football, usually with a 4-5-1 formation that allows them to dominate the midfield area of the pitch.

Defending champions BJ Foundation, who drew bye in the first round, will start their defence of the competition on Saturday morning when the second round of matches will kick off. They will be playing against upstarts De Leo FC.

•Photo shows players of Bendel Insurance stretching before the kick-off in the first round Edo FA Cup thrashing of Sir Wota FC.

Source Daily Sports

Posted March 25, 2016

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