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BY SAB OSUJI

Michael 'Morata' Abraham scored twice, each on either half of the feisty 'Anambra Derby' versus Rangels of Achina in the final group match of the 2024 NLO U19 playoffs at the Ginger Sam Stadium, Umuahia, on Tuesday, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

'Morata' thus leads the group's scorers chart with five goals, following a hattrick in Monday's opening fixture versus Platinum FC.

Tuesday's 2-0 triumph ensures the 2023 Anambra FA Cup winners topped group B with the maximum six points, and would rub shoulders with Hopeland FA in Thursday's final match of the zone to determine who picks the sole qualification ticket from the Ginger Sam Stadium, Umuahia, Center, with the eventual Umuahia Center winner going ahead to play the winner of Awka City Stadium Center.

Ikenna Osueke, Proprietor of Ozalla FA admitted it was no easy ride to victory against Rangels.

"You called it a Derby match and that was exactly what it turned out to be", starts Osueke who is called Coach by his admirers.

"When two teams who come from same place (state) and know each other inside out play, you surely will see delicate and enthralling football served on the plate of difficult exchange of fireworks.

"But I'm happy God gave us victory in the end and return all glories to Him, the most High".

"Our win, especially the scoreline, does not remove any credit from Rangels. They are a tough side and disciplined side. Of course, in a game of this magnitude, one side must win and I'm happy we won".

The young club boss looks ahead to Thursday's clash against Hopeland philosophically.

"God has already known who will eventually win at this Center. As human beings, we can only play our part but God has already decided who will win".

Hopeland topped group A with seven (7) points, same as second placed Ave Int'l FC but with superior goal advantage.