Shillong, Mar 24: United Umsning Sports Academy were crowned as the champions of Mawten SC’s 5th Invitation Football Tournament after defeating Meghalaya Police 4-2 in an exciting final yesterday.
In front of a large crowd, UUSA’s Ronalkydon Lyngdoh Nonglait bagged the opening goal in the 15th minute, but Everestarly Rynjah of the cops equalised just four minutes later.
Both teams demonstrated good one-touch play, with equal possession and chances, but Donlad Diengdoh found a way to put UUSA back into the lead in first half stoppage time.
MLP again equalised in the first few minutes of the second half via Everwell Khongjee, but the police team were never able to dominate the game and attacking play from United Umsning saw them score twice more, through Pynshai Surong (53′) and Reson Malngiang (84′).
As champions UUSA took home a cheque of Rs 3 lakh. There were other prizes to give out after the game, five of which were claimed by UUSA players – Man-of-the-Match (Donborlang Nongkynrih), Best Player (Donlad Diengdoh), Best Goalkeeper (Eborlang Nongtdu), Promising Player of the Tournament (Pynshai Surong) and Top Scorer (Reson Malngiang). The Best Defender award went to Batskhem Shanpru of Eastern Pirates and the award for Best Goal went to Manbha Iawphniaw of Young Gun, while Lamlongtei took home the award for most disciplined team.
Director of Sports & Youth Affairs Wanrilin Booth was the chief guest on the occasion. Also present were South West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Isawanda Laloo, local MLA Renikton Lyngdoh, local MDC Carnes Sohshang as well as other officials and dignitaries.
(Photo contributed by Mawten SC)
