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Dimapur, March 8 (EMN): Nallong (White) FC defeated Jalukie B Youth (A) by a solitary goal in the final match to emerge as the new champions of the 15th Jalukie Valley Open football tournament played at Jalukie 'B' local ground.
Playing in front of a fully packed ground on Monday evening, Nallong FC took control of the game as they dominated the match with ball possession. Jalukie B relied on counter attacks in the final match but was unsuccessful.
The first half saw both teams failing to find the back of the net as they were unable to create opportunities.
In the second half, Nallong FC came back stronger as Kakhevi Assumi scored in the 57th minute for Nallong FC. A blunder from the defensive error helped him slot home the only goal.
Nallong FC striker Shamba Samson T Konyak should have finished the game when he came one- on-one with the opponent keeper but looped the ball into the crossbar in the last quater of the match.
Jalukie team failed to respond back in a lackluster game as they suffered a defeat at the hands of the Nallong FC by 1-0 in the final whistle.
Team coach of Nallong FC, Chamchangbo after winning the match, said it was a hard fought match but acknowledged God for the success of the team in the final match. Winning by a tight margin, the coach said the ‘nervy encounter’ pulled up their socks till the final whistle to take the title.
He expressed his excitement taking the title for the first time after losing two consecutive semifinals matches against Wihiambo FC Jalukie in the previous edition. He hoped the team would be able to retained the trophy again with vigorous practice and training in the following editions.
Deputy Commissioner of Peren Sentiwapang Aier graced the occasion as the guest of honor. In his short address, he called upon the players to be disciplined in their field and show the true sportsmanship to the spectators.
He also asked the players to continue contributing to sports through their own ways. He later gave away the awards to the winning teams.
The champions Nullong FC walked home with a cash prize of INR 1 lakh along with the trophy, while runner-up Jalukie B Youth (A) with INR 50,000.
Neithovilie Chalieu of Nallong FC was awarded the best goal keeper of the tournament and received INR 3000. Sujimong Lkr of Jalukie B Youth (A) was adjudged the best player of the tournament and walked away with INR 5000.