The 13th edition of the Lotha Football Championship, organised by Wokha District Football Association, was inaugurated on Tuesday at the public ground Wokha on with Chief Medical Officer, Wokha, Dr Zuben Kikon, as the Special Guest.

In his address, Dr Kikon commended the players for their enthusiasm and encouraged them to view sports not just as a seasonal interest but as a potential profession. He highlighted that engagement in sports cultivates good manners and politeness, emphasizing the role of unity in fostering positive examples for spectators.

Respect for opponents, Dr Kikon stated, is a key trait of a good sportsperson. Additionally, he underscored the need for young athletes to balance their strength and energy with maturity, cautioning against short-tempered behaviour. He also urged participants to showcase their talents and to make the match memorable, and hoped that they will become well-known personalities in their respective fields.

The inaugural program was chaired by Libenthung Ovung, invocation by V. Yentsao Ezung, welcome address by President of Wokha District Football Association, N Samuel Ezung and pledge of players was administered by Athungo Erui.

The first match of the Lotha Football Championship 2024 was played between Friends Club Wokha Village and Young Brothers XI which Friends Club won 4-2.

The second match was a draw between Titans XI Pangti and Lower Sechum FC with both teams scoring one goal each.

Airfield FC beat Tchuriyo FC 4-2 in the third and last match of the inaugural day.

Match schedule for 17th January 2024

1st Match

Vipers club Vs XI BrothersFC

2nd Match

Nyiro Range Sports Association

Vs Restoring Boys FC

3rd Match

Lower Senchum Vs Airfield FC