Evergreen Club Ungma won the 18th Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy after a thrilling final in Mokokchung.
MOKOKCHUNG — Evergreen Club Ungma emerged as the champions of the 18th Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy after defeating defending champions MH-10 Kohima in a thrilling five-set match 25–20, 25–22, 25–16, 25–21, 15–13 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on Saturday.
The opening set saw both teams exchange points with equal determination. MH-10’s Rishitemjen and Evergreen’s setter Lima led their respective teams with well-coordinated plays. The duel between MH-10’s hitter Watinuken and Evergreen’s Bendang stood out, with MH-10 taking the set 25–20.
The second set continued with the same intensity. MH-10’s veteran setter Tongpangsunep organised flawless setups, while Evergreen’s Tongpang, Moang, and Mesu mounted a strong defensive line that frustrated MH-10’s attacks. MH-10’s libero Chubamanen impressed with his defensive prowess, diving across the court to retrieve difficult shots. Guided by captain Tongpangsunep and senior player Pitovi Sheqi, MH-10 took the set 25–22.
However, the third set marked a turning point. Evergreen launched a fierce offensive led by Wonglom, Moang, Mesu, and Bendang, overpowering MH-10’s defence to secure a 25–16 win and revive their hopes.
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With renewed momentum, Evergreen entered the fourth set confidently. MH-10’s Imlichuba scored crucial points to keep the scores level at 10–10. The exchanges were intense. Evergreen’s consistency prevailed as they won 25–21, forcing a decisive fifth set.
The final set was a contest of nerves and endurance. MH-10 opted to receive after winning the toss. Both teams matched each other point-for-point, with Watinuken’s spikes and Rishitemjen’s deceptive moves keeping MH-10 in the game.
Evergreen’s Wonglom, Bendang, and Mesu countered with precise coordination and sharp counter-attacks. Their resilience carried them through as Evergreen Club Ungma clinched the final set 15–13, dethroning MH-10 Kohima.
Individual awards:
Best Setter: Limatenzuk (Evergreen Club Ungma)
Best Spiker: Bendangtemsu (Evergreen Club Ungma)
Player of the Tournament: Imlichuba (MH-10 Kohima)