DIMAPUR — The 10-day-long Poumai Premier League (PPL) Season X concluded on October 26 at the Astro Turf Ground, Senapati, with Pou Legend FC crowned as the champion and Paohkhaodu FC securing the runner-up position.
In the final match, played between defending champion Paohkhaodu FC and four-time semi-finalists and two-time finalists Pou Legend FC, a corner kick from Pou Legend FC resulted in a goal by Dahrii of Phaibung Khunou in the first half, without any player touching the ball, according to an update.
After about 10 minutes of play, Pou Legend FC took another corner kick, resulting in a header that scored a second goal, bringing the score to 2-0 in the first half.
Soon after the start of the second half, Paohkhaodu FC scored a solitary goal during the middle of the half. However, at the end of full time, Pou Legend FC added another goal from long range, securing a 3-1 victory and winning the tournament.
The champion team received a cash prize of INR 1 lakh, along with a trophy and certificates, while the runners-up received INR 60,000 and certificates.
Individual prizes included the golden boot (highest goal scorer), awarded to Haotinsem of Risk Raven FC and Chinakho of Paohkhaodu FC, who each scored 8 goals. The golden glove went to Chinavi of Paohkhaodu FC, while the golden ball was awarded to Rakeveiche of Pou Legend FC. Ngaopuni of Paohkhaodu FC received the award for best coach, and Mevei Grey of Pou Legend FC was named best manager.
The closing ceremony of the season was attended by J Kumo Sha, MLA, 47-Karong AC, as the chief guest, and Adahrii Maheo, MCS, CEO, ADC, Senapati, as the guest of honour. The special guests included the president of the Poumai Naga Union and J Koveo, president of the Senapati District Olympic Association, Manipur.
In his speech, Sha stated that people in the past considered sports as merely fun, not realising its importance. He noted that many players have made their fortunes through sports today. With the sports industry blooming in India and the arrival of the ISL, football has gained significant prominence in contemporary society.
For those who view football as a profession, the MLA urged players to demonstrate commitment and dedication to excel in the field. Sha also encouraged the PPL committee to promote young talent and develop them in coordination with the district sports association without bias or favour.
The MLA expressed hope that district players would be promoted to state and national levels in the near future through the organisation of such tournaments.
Maheo expressed his happiness at the PPL serving as a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their talents and skills through these tournaments.
He noted that such tournaments celebrate dedication, teamwork, and the spirit of competition. Every participant, regardless of the outcome, is a champion for having the courage to compete in the PPL.