The 5th Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament 2024, organised by Marepkong Youth Association under the theme “Rise As One,” kicked off today at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung.
Artang delivered a dominant performance, securing 7-0 victory over Marepkong in the 5th Mokokchung Inter-ward Football Tournament 2024, organized by Marepkong Youth Association at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on March 12.
Artang seized an early lead just two minutes into the game when a forward was brought down inside the D-Box, resulting in a penalty. Tongpangnokdang (Jersey No.9) confidently converted the spot-kick, giving Artang a 1-0 advantage.
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With the opening goal, Artang grew in confidence and asserted their dominance, delivering a punishing display in the first half. Alemjungba (Jersey No. 21) doubled the lead in the 8th minute, followed by goals from Alemjungba (Jersey No. 21) and Temshi Imchen (Jersey No.14), extending Artang’s lead to 4-0 by halftime.
The second half was a comfortable affair for Artang, while Marepkong endured a torrid time. Namang (Jersey No.4) added a fifth goal in the 33rd minute, followed by Limatongzuk’s (Jersey No.12) strike in the 52nd minute. Alemjungba (Jersey No.21) completed his brace with another clinical finish, sealing a 7-0 victory for Artang.
In the second match, Alempang and Yimyu played out a tense 1-1 draw. Nungsangkaba (Jersey No. 8) opened the scoring for Yimyu in the 9th minute, but Chubatemsu (Jersey No. 12) equalized for Alempang in the 26th minute. Despite both teams enjoying spells of possession in the second half, neither could find the winning goal.
The third match saw Majakong and Penli settle for a 2-2 draw. Majakong took an early lead through Opangsunep’s (Jersey No.7) goal in the 3rd minute, but Penli fought back with goals from S Lemsa (Jersey No.7) in the 17th and 19th minutes, giving them a 2-1 advantage. However, Majakong leveled the score in the 48th minute, courtesy of Opangsunep’s (Jersey No.7) second goal, ensuring the match ended all square.
Earlier the Guest of Honour, Mayangnungba, President NDPP Mokokchung Region, in his address, applauded the Marepkong Youth Association for providing such a platform and organizing the tournament. He emphasized that football is a universally beloved sport and stressed that one’s skills and character determine their performance on the field. He highlighted that the tournament is a collective effort involving players, organizers, and spectators, urging everyone to unite in the spirit of the game.
He encouraged players to nurture their talent, develop their skills professionally, and take advantage of available facilities to excel in the game.
It was informed that 13 out of the 18 wards of Mokokchung are participating in the tournament, which is scheduled from March 12 to March 23.
Marnungsang Ao, Chairman of Mongsenbai Ward, delivered a brief exhortation, while Bendangsunep welcomed the attendees. Takalong Pongen, President of MYA, administered the ceremonial oath of the tournament.
The program was chaired by Talinaro and Supongtila. L. Temjen, Pastor of Police Baptist Church DEF, pronounced the invocation while a special number was presented under the theme.
The champion will receive a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 along with a trophy and certificates, while the runners-up will be awarded Rs. 30,000 along with a trophy and certificates. Additionally, individual prizes for Highest Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, and Player of the Tournament will be awarded.
The tournament is exclusively for Mokokchung citizens to promote local talent and encourage participation from young talents who are permanent residents of Mokokchung, prohibiting the hiring of players from outside. The tickets to watch the matches are Rs. 30 per person.
