Dimapur, Oct. 10 (EMN): The 27th Loyem Memorial Trophy organised by the Confederation of Chang Students’ Union (CCSU) kicked off on October 10 at Loyem Memorial Ground, Tuensang.
An update received here on Thursday informed that N Bongkhao Konyak, advisor for department of Underdeveloped Area (Duda), attended the inaugural ceremony of the tournament as special guest. He was said to be accompanied by several dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Konyak recalled late Changkong Chang who initiated the tournament in memory of his father Loyem Chang with a vision to bring unity, mutual understanding and to provide young people a platform to excel in the field of sports.
“Forget and forgive about the past. It’s time to collaborate and coordinate together to create a peaceful environment for the next generation,” he said.
He reminded the people that Tuensang district is the torch bearer for ENPO and hence, Chang community should set an example for building peace and development in the region.
“Tuensang district, since the time of Naga Hills Tuensang Area, has been the mirror for the ENPO. Prime Minister of India and high-ranking officials from the centre chose Tuensang for any consultative meeting because of the history, and it should be considered as a privilege as well as a challenge to know about your responsibility,” he said.
P Ngamen Chang urged the people to come forward and make the environment plastic-free in his welcome address. He also stated that ‘the reason behind the change in the bye and limiting foreign players was to uplift local players from ENPO area and to give them more opportunity.’
Opening match
Defending champions Nyenshen FC took on United FC in the opening match of the tournament and won comfortably by 3-1 margin.
Vinoka opened the account for Nyenshen and first goal of this year’s edition in the 6th minute, sending the supporters into frenzy. The lead didn’t last long though as United captain Peshie scored a beautiful volley in the 21st minute to tie the score 1-1 and rattled the defending champions.
However, Vinoka scored again in the 27th minute. Then Pete scored in the first minute of the second half to seal the game for Nyenshen.
