Dimapur, Jan. 31 (EMN): Minister for Rural Development, Metsubo Jamir kicked off the 2nd edition of the 27 Mokokchung town AC, Youth Organisation Football Tournament at Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Monday.
Six teams viz. all the NDPP youth organisations under 27 AC -- Aongza, Kichutip, Kumlong, Mongsenbai, Salangtem – and an AC and PS-PA team are participating in the tournament, which is sponsored by Nagaland Minerals and Mines, a press release informed.
“The reason for organising this running trophy for the second successive year is a testament of our bond of friendship and brotherhood amongst us becoming bigger and better year after year,” stated Imliyanger Jamir, president of Youth Organisation 27 Mokokchung Town AC.
Informing that the unity shared by the five wards under the constituency will never be broken, Imliyanger asserted that this tournament would not only develop the ‘stamina and strength’ of the youths but also bring the people together in solidarity and to live in peace.
Jamir, the special guest and the local MLA from 27 Mokokchung town AC, appreciated the organisers and the sponsor for coming up with this innovative idea to hold a football tournament, where the youths can come together and learn from each other.
Speaking on sportsmanship and the need to respect one's team jersey, Jamir said that games and sports is not only about competing but about healthy competition.
Taking the ongoing tournament as a metaphor, the minister said that he is going to play in ‘a bigger tournament’ next year, indicating the imminent 2023 assembly election. He, therefore, asked the participating teams and players to be prepared to play with the same zeal and vigour in the years to come, it said.
Meanwhile, defending champions Mongsenbai defeated Aongza 5-1 in the first match of the day. In the second match, Kumlong overshadowed Kichutip 2-0, while in the last match Mongsenbai again triumphed over Salangtem 2-0.
On Feb. 1 (Monday), AC and PS-PA team takes on Kichutip in the first match, Aongza plays against Salangtem and AC and PS-PA takes on Kumlong in the last match.