Shillong, Jun 15: After two successful past editions, the third Imperial Blue Super 5 five-a-side football tournament will be held this month from 25th to 30th June at Madan Iewrynghep in Laitumkhrah.
Last year 120 teams took part from Meghalaya and Assam and this year the organisers are expecting even more to join in the fun.
This edition will feature an enhanced prize purse totalling more than Rs 1 lakh, with Rs 40,000 going to the winners, Rs 30,000 to the runners-up and Rs 20,000 to the third-placed team. Individual prizes will also be awarded to the Best Goalkeeper, Top Scorer and Best Player.
Those interested in registering a team must do so by 22nd June. The tournament is open to players over the age of 21. A Rs 500 entry fee per team is mandatory.
In addition, a ‘freestyle football’ competition for individuals will also be held, which is open to all (no entry fee) and for which prizes up to Rs 20,000 will be awarded to the winners.
Matches preceding the semifinal stage will be of 20 minutes’ duration, with the last-four and final to be played over 30 minutes.
Last year Friends FC of Dawki won the tournament, with Nongmadan Smit coming second. Kitboklang Pale, the ace striker at Langsning FC, was the top scorer.
Speaking at a press conference here today organiser John Wankhar said that the tournament has been organised to “enjoy the spirit of the game.”
The first two editions of the tournament have seen professional and amateur players from Meghalaya and Assam participate, Wankhar said. Teams have been entered by local clubs, localities, government offices and corporate houses, he added.
“Because of the overwhelming response in the first two years, our brand sponsor has extended support to the third edition,” Wankhar, flanked by this year’s brand ambassador and Meghalaya football star Eugeneson Lyngdoh, stated.
Lyngdoh, meanwhile, said that he was happy to see a tournament that gives a competitive platform for non-professionals.
“This is the third edition, so the tournament has credibility. It’s not one of those that comes and goes,” he added.
Those interested can call +91 9366085728 or email ibsuper5meghalaya@gmail.com
(TSR photo. Eugeneson Lyngdoh (left) and John Wankhar (right))
