BY SAB OSUJI

Benjamin Adieze, goalkeeper coach of Fortress Ladies says hard work and perseverance were his girls staying power as they breezed past Awka Angels 4-3 on penalty kicks after a scoreless regulation time in Friday morning's quarter final match of the 2023 Ifeanyi Chiejine Memorial Cup Championship in Asaba, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

"I'm happy. I'm grateful to God for this victory and I must commend the girls for their hard work and perseverance", Adieze said in a most excited tone.

"They fought hard and well. That's what you get when you remain focused to your objectives and work hard towards achieving success".

The elated tactician paid glowing tribute to Delta State for organising the tournament in memory of one of Nigeria's finest players, Ifeanyi Chiejine.

"I must commend Delta State for this championship. Its one of bold efforts to push women's football up in the country and we must continue to be part of it to immortalise Ifeanyi Chiejine".

He said the quarter final win was 'justice' prevailing at the last count after they had the ball inside the net in the first half but the seeming goal was chalked off by the referee.

"No doubt we felt hard done by the disallowance of the goal because the opponent's had a player on the line.

"But who are we to question the decision of the referee. So, now, I think justice has smiled on our side".

With scoreline still barren few minutes before the final whistle, the goalkeeper trainer threw in the dice, bringing on goalkeeper Imade Obadan who later emerged heroine of her side's win after saving a penalty kick during the shootout.

"I know she's good in spot kicks but just that sometimes the confidence isn't there so I had to talk to him on that.

"I'm happy she got it right and we're now in the semi final".

Looking forward to their Saturday's semi final, coach Adieze says they fear no foes as they are poised to give their all in every single game irrespective of who their opponents are.