Shillong, Nov 19: Meghalaya were knocked out of the School Games Federation of India’s U-19 Football Tournament after a close semifinal match against Punjab, in which the latter won 5-4 in a penalty shootout, in Pacheri Bari-Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, today.
There was recognition, however, for one Meghalaya player, Dawanchwa Carlos Challam (pictured), who was named man-of-the-match and who later received the Best Defender award at the prize distribution ceremony that followed the final, which was also held today.
Challam plays his club football for Rangdajied United.
Meghalaya got to the semifinals after a superlative group stage performance, which saw them beat West Bengal, Kendriya Vidyalayas Sangathan, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand and New Delhi. They scored 13 goals across those matches while conceding only one. You can find our summary of those results here.
Squad: Polyboy Kharsyntiew, Afreeborn Kharmyndai, Donboklang Mawlong, Samborlang Ryntathiang, Kyntipborlang Marbaniang, Teibokmi Lyngdoh, Frengorius Mawrie, Ksankupar Massar, Sondy Kharkongor, Eugene E Shylla, Belton Lartang, Justarfill Syiemlieh, Khrawbok Synkli, Dawanchwa C Challam, Pynkraw Kharbuli, Rijiedskhem Sun, Robertson Khongriah, Badonkupar Marbaniang
Coach: Jeffery Warlarpih
Manager: Beneslaus Khyriem
(Photo contributed)