*By David Uka, Abakaliki*
Top League Clubs in the South East and South-South region of the country are expected to participate in the 2018 edition of the Southeast/South South pre-season tournament.
The tournament which has been slated to take place from 4th November to 8th November 2018 will be played at the newly refurbished Pa Oruta Ngele Stadium Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital.
The tournament is to be hosted by Cynosure FC Abakaliki in conjunction with the Ebonyi State Ministry of Youth and Sports.
Clubs expected at the tournament include Abia Warriors of Umuahia, FC Ifeanyi Ubah of Nnewi, Heartland FC of Owerri, Rivers United of Port Harcourt.
Others are Rangers international FC of Enugu, Akwa United of Ụyọ, and the host team Cynosure FC of Abakaliki.
Also, Nationwide Division One League club, SKE FC of Port Harcourt and Patriot FC of Enugu have confirmed their preparedness to compete in the tournament.
The first edition of the tournament took place last year at FC Ifeanyi Ubah Township Stadium Nnewi with the host team, FC Ifeanyi Ubah emerging champions after beating Rivers United 3-1 in the finals.
The tournament is intended to help the clubs in the South East and South South region prepare adequately for the 2018/2019 season which is expected to commence in 14th November.
Chairman of Cynosure FC, Prince Chidiebere told journalists in Abakaliki, that all is set for the tournament.
He commended the State Government for partnering with the club to host this year’s edition of the tournament.
The club boss also promised visiting teams of adequate security and hospitality from the government and people of the State.
