Dimapur, Oct. 5 (EMN): The first edition of the Peren District Football League (PDFL) organised by Peren District Football Association (PDFA) kick-started on October 4 at Jalukie B village ground.
The month-long tournament was attended by entrepreneur and co-founder of YouthNet Nagaland, Kuchi Rangkau as the special guest.
The opening match was played between Puiteng FC and Barak FA where Puiteng FC defeated Barak FA 3-1. The opening goal came from the boot of Wibonzibo (16) in the 3rd and 62nd minutes for Puiteng FC, while the third goal was scored by Kajiwi (17) in the 65th minute. Puiteng FC dominated the game and took a comfortable win. The lone goal for Barak came from the boot of Kenumdi (17) in the 82nd minute.
In the second match, Native Feathers beat Lekie Mtei FC 3-2. Few minutes into the game, Native Feathers found the back of the net in the 9th minute by Lungmedau (9). The second and third goals for Native Feathers were scored by Khangkinwi in the 31st and 37th minutes.
The first half was dominated by Native Feathers while Lekie Mtei FC was not in form till the breather. After the breather, Lekie Mtei FC came back stronger and fought back. The first goal for Lekie Mtei FC was scored by Isizaibe (30) in the 67th minute and second goal by Haileuyibe in the 78th minute. The match was a highly contested game as Lekie Mtei FC fought hard. Lekie Mtei FC got several chances for an equaliser but failed to make a breakthrough as the referee blew the last whistle.
Earlier, the chief guest told the PDFA to continue and uphold this tradition so that the grassroots will grow. He also urged the PDFA to keep up with the consistency even in the future to progress in the field of football.
Citing some prominent star footballers of the world, he reminded the players that they were also brought up and raised from the grassroots level.
Reminding the players that a decade ago, players had no access to big platforms and access to many prominent leagues in the state level and national level, the present generation of players have enough options, he said and urged them to optimise their talents and skills to grab higher goals.
Emphasising on district football, Rangkau expressed excitement that Jalukie is coming up with a standard sized astro turf football field, which is expected to be completed soon.
He expressed hope that the Nagaland Premier League (NPL) be revived to promote football in the state and further wished the district football to grow to higher heights.
Altogether, eight clubs are participating in the tournament namely, Barak Football Academy, Puiteng FC, Native Feathers, Benreu FC, Lekie Mtei FC, Prime FC, Nsong Area Sports Association and Northern Zeme Sports Association.
