East Kameng lifts Dera Natung (DN) Memorial Football Trophy

NAHARLAGUN, Sep 11: In a game of missed opportunities, East Kameng colts defeated Lower Subansiri via penalty kick by a margin of 7-6 goals and lifted the first U-16 Dera Natung Memorial Football Tournament at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium here today.

The winner had to be decided through penalty kick after both the teams failed to break the deadlock that went into extra time.

East Kameng players erupted with joy when the 10th and crucial kick taken by Lower Subansiri’s Pura Dokhung flew-past over the goal bar.

Credit must be given to East Kameng goalkeeper, who contributed in team’s victory by saving three crucial goals.

East Kameng’s Kaya Sangno, Toko Polium, Atam Bagang, AS Chetry, Tero Dodum, Durga Doreh and Gele Talang found the net while Rony Ramchung, Manto Rimo and Adam Rimo missed the target. Hage Koyang, Millo Taki, Gyati Tatung, Mihin Pullo, Likha Peri, Tao Takar were the scorers for Lower Subansiri while the shots taken by Tame Gumte, Kime Tatang and Koj Chatu were smartly saved by East Kameng goalkeeper.

Earlier, East Kameng team’s golden scoring opportunity came in 51 minutes but Rony Ramchung could not convert it into a goal although there was only the goalkeeper to beat. Another strong footer from Captain Adam Rimo in 22nd struck the goal bar.

Although the first half was dominated by East Kameng, Lower Subansiri regrouped in second half and initiated some calculated moves. However, the alert defenders, especially Kaya Sangno, successfully thwarted their all attempts.

East Kameng Captain Adam Rimo has been adjudged the Player of the Tournament while Loie Kena of Capital Complex became the highest scorer. The fair play trophy went to Lower Dibang Valley team.

Techi Kaso, who attended today’s final match as chief guest, gave away winner’s and runner’s up trophies along with cash prizes of Rs. 30,000 and Rs.20,000 respectively to both the teams.