Ho, Jan. 30, GNA - Fire FC and West Cedars, both from the Ketu South District on Friday qualified for the finals of the on-going Volta Region Coca Cola Under-17 Championship in Ho. Fire FC pipped Asogli FC 1-0 through a power header from Patrick Kpozo in the 10th minute whilst West Cedars qualified with 5-4 win in a penalty shootout after a goalless drawn game.

The two-day tournament has been described by major stakeholders including Chiefs and educationists as a good exercise to unearth talents in the Region to develop into future stars for the country. The Volta Regional Minister, Mr Joseph Amenowode at the official opening ceremony, urged trainers and coaches handling the youth in sporting events to instil the virtues of confidence, discipline and the spirit of excellence in them.

Mr Amenowode said it was such virtues that would make the individual sportsperson different from others and not only to develop their skills. The Regional Minister advised the youthful footballers to take their education serious, saying "in today's world of sports, there is no room for illiterates."

Coaches E. K. Afranie and Oteng Akenteng were among the technical men in charge of the tournament, which is aimed at identifying players for the National Under-17.

The winner of the regional tournament will represent the Region in a national competition. All participating teams were given 100 Ghana cedis each with some Coca Cola souvenirs while the winner will take 400 Ghana Cedis, first runner, 350 Ghana cedis and second runner 300 Ghana cedis. 30 Jan. 10