Loyem Memorial Trophy kicks off in Tuensang

DIMAPUR — The 31st edition of the Loyem Memorial Trophy 2023 kicked off on Tuesday at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground, Tuensang, on the theme ‘Soar high on sports rather drugs’, with Imtichoba, MLA, and chairman DPDB Tuensang as the special guest.

Chang Wetoshi Setshang (CWS) is organising the tournament in collaboration with the Chang Sports Association (CSA).

Speaking on the occasion, Imtichoba expressed his gratitude to CWS and CSA and urged the players and youth of Tuensang to take football seriously and to take care of their bodies and health by abstaining from using abusive substances.

In his speech, Superintendent of Police, Tuensang, Kanchan Kumar Kandpal, addressed the issue of rising substance abuse in society. He stated that, compared to 2022, the number of drug seizure cases this year increased tenfold over an eight-month period.

“Without community support, it is nearly impossible to curb this drug abuse in our society”, he underscored. He also urged the public to assist the department by notifying the nearest police station if anyone is suspected of drug dealing or consumption so that legal action can be taken against them.

The first match was played between Son Kük Laang (SKL) FC and Aumei FC, with Ayen Chang scoring the first hatrick for SKL FC, defeating Aumei FC 8-1 in the match.

DEF Tuensang defeated Kuthur FC 4-0 in the second match.

Wednesday’s matches

Match1: Nyaklangbou Youth Fellowship vs. CSU Saksi

Match 2: Vetao Ayie FC vs. Kuthur FC

Match 3: Rise of Stranger FC vs. Tiaren FC

Also read: KSUM stuns SSS 4-2 in MDFA Trophy opener