The defending champion of the Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament, Arkong defeated Artang with a 3-1 victory, clinching their second title at Imkongmeren Sports Complex in Mokokchung today. Arkong had previously secured the inaugural edition of MIWFT in 2019 organised by the Marepkong Youth Association under the theme “Rise as One”.
The Champion claimed a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with the trophy and certificates, while the runners-up, Artang, received Rs 30,000 along with certificates. Vesupra Kezo, Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, presented the prizes.
Individual awards:
Highest Goal Scorer: Tarepnungsang (Sungkomen) with 9 goals.
Best Keeper: Kevin (Arkong)
Best Defense: Inovi Chishi (Arkong)
Player of the Tournament: Namang (Artang)
The final match attracted spectators from both Arkong and Artang wards, as well as citizens of Mokokchung, rallying behind their respective teams. Out of the 13 participating teams, Arkong and Artang emerged as finalists, overcoming Sungkomen and Mongsenbai in the semifinals, respectively.
In a highly anticipated final showdown, Arkong secured their victory with a 3-1 scoreline against Artang. This marked their second encounter in the finals, the first being in the inaugural edition where Arkong prevailed with a 1-0 scoreline in 2019.
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Artang showcased dominance from the outset, with Bendangtoshi (Jersey No. 9) scoring the fastest goal in 20 seconds, setting a tournament record. Despite Arkong’s early lead of 1-0, Artang struggled to breach their opponent’s formidable defense, preventing any attempts to score.
With two minutes of added time in the first half, Arkong’s Aripong (Jersey no. 8) capitalized on loose Artang defense, securing a second goal in the 45+2 minutes, leaving Artang trailing at halftime.
In the second half, Artang rallied with commendable attempts, earning a penalty when Arkong’s Inovi Chishi (Jersey No. 6) received a yellow card for a foul. Tongpang Lemtur (Jersey No. 9) successfully converted the penalty, scoring Artang’s lone goal in the 60th minute. However, Arkong maintained their dominance, with Talitemsu (Jersey No. 3) sealing the victory with a third goal in the 67th minute.
Artang team, Runner-up of Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament 2024
Earlier Guest of Honour, Thsuvisie Phoji, DC Mokokchung, in his address, congratulated the two finalists of the tournament and expressed his wishes for the best team to win. He also took the opportunity to announce the upcoming Lok Sabha election date on April 19, 2024, urging the people to cast their votes wisely as the elected member will represent all Nagas in the Parliament.
He acknowledged all the participating teams, terming them all winners, including everyone involved: wards, coaches, spectators, supporters, and donors.
He encouraged the other teams to seize the opportunity next year, emphasizing that it is not just about winning but also about discipline, sportsmanship, and friendship. He quoted, “Life is beyond any game or sport, but having good relationships with your fellow friends and citizens will have a greater impact on society, your relationship with your neighbors, and friends.”
The program was chaired by Talinaro and Supongtila, Yangthrila, Associate Pastor of Youth at Sangtam Baptist Church in Mokokchung, pronounced the invocation. Bendangnukshi, Convenor of MIWFT, delivered the vote of thanks. Sentimenla presented a special number, followed by the kick-off by the Guest of Honour.
Ajit Kumar, IAS, Assistant Commissioner, and Vesupra Kezo, Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, All Ward Union Mokokchung Town and other dignitaries were also present in the closing ceremony.
