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Dibrugarh/Tezpur, Feb. 18: Assam Police Blues, Guwahati blanked Public Health Engineering Recreational Club, Silchar 2-0 in a Group B match of the 2nd Airtel Assam State Premier League at Piyoli Phukon Stadium in Sivasagar today. In another match of the tournament at the Polo Ground in Tezpur, 9 Assam Police Battalion (APBn), Nagaon held Green Valley Sports Club, Guwahati to a 1-1 draw. Rabijit Jigdung scored the second goal for the team in the 81st minute through solo efforts. Jigdung dribbled past three Silchar defenders to net the goal. At Tezpur, it was a lacklustre affair with the Guwahati side playing an off-colour game. The Nagaon policemen dominated the first half and found the lead in the 38th minute through skipper Lamphu Basumatary. Trailing by a goal into the second half, the experienced Green Valley men came back strongly midway into the session and finally managed to find the equaliser through Dipak Kujuri in the 67th minute. Tomorrow, Oil India FC, Duliajan will clash with FCI, Guwahati in Sivasagar while Assam Rifles meet ASEB SC in Tezpur. Senior cricket Sivasagar entered the quarter-finals of the Nuruddin Ahmed Trophy senior inter-district cricket plate group tournament. They were declared winners in toss of a coin after the second day’s play of their two-day match against NC Hills was abandoned because of poor pitch conditions at Jorhat Stadium after last night’s showers says our correspondent from Jorhat. They will meet Nalbari in the quarter-finals on Saturday. Corporate cricket: Futuristic Advertising and Management will organise the 8th Telegraph Pibco Hero Honda six-a-side day-and-night corporate cricket carnival at Judges Field here from March 5 to 7, says our staff reporter. Manipur polo: Manipur Police Sports Club A beat Khurai Polo Club A 5-2 to lift the champion’s trophy of the 1st 57 Mountain Division Polo Tournament at Imphal Polo ground here today, says our correspondent. Volleyball: Manipur Police Sports Club won the 1st State Level Junior Volleyball Tournament defeating Senjam Khunou 25-16, 25-15, 25-19 in the final at Senjam today. Junior football: Birchandra Memorial Sporting Club overcame Model Club 4-2 during penalty shootout to enter the final of the 7th Th Birchandra Singh Football Academy State-Level Junior Football Tournament at Toubungkhok today. |
Cops beat PHE men
United we rule: Donkupar Roy (left) with D.D. Lapang Meghalaya: It’s raining chief ministers By Seema Hussain The tiny Meghalaya had 21 governments in 38 years. Just two of them completed their five-year terms. The pine-lined ‘abode of clouds’ has more to boast of. In 1978, a mere six years after formation, the state elected D.D. Pugh chief minister by lottery. In 2001, an Independent legislator, F.A. Khonglam, became CM. And now, there are four people enjoying the chief minister’s rank. D.D. Lapang became chief minister last May. Two others shared his rank—State Planning Board chairman Donkupar Roy and Meghalaya Economic Development Council chairman J.D. Rymbai, both former CMs. As if that was not enough, Lapang offered the same status to friend and state Congress president Friday Lyngdoh on January 28. Lyngdoh will not have executive powers, but will function as “political adviser” to Lapang, according to a government notification. Lyngdoh had the deputy CM rank before the elevation. “Roy and Rymbai are former chief ministers from a different party,” says opposition MLA Manas Choudhuri. “But I see no logic behind the elevation of Lyngdoh.” Congress insiders say it was appeasement. Lyngdoh has of late been voicing grievances of Lapang’s detractors. The Congress has 28 MLAs and the support of 10 from the United Democratic Party in the 60-member Assembly. The main opposition is former Lok Sabha speaker P.A. Sangma’s Nationalist Congress Party with 15 MLAs. At least eight rebel MLAs in the Congress are loyal to Lyngdoh. But the CM-rich government has few takers. “This is a bizarre attempt to ensure the longevity of the Congress government, and will put immense pressure on the state exchequer,” says Kong Norris, a schoolteacher. “Apart from four CMs the state also has a couple of deputy CMs—Mukul Sangma and Bindo Lanong.” Opposition leader Conrad Sangma says “the government is wasting money just to stick to power, and that, too, when the state does not have enough funds to pay salaries of its employees.” Lapang is unfazed. He says more MLAs would be raised to CM rank, if required. His is the third government in the state since the March 2008 elections. Any bets on how long it will last?
David Beckham believes Wayne Rooney is capable of carrying his coruscating form all the way from the San Siro to Soccer City after dismissing fears that the Manchester United forward's star will burn out before the World Cup. 
Rooney's two goals during United's 3-2 Champions League victory against Beckham's AC Milan on Tuesday ensured a perfect 10 for the 24 year-old so far in 2010 – 10 games, 10 goals.
Sir Alex Ferguson's prime objective is to ensure that Rooney remains in his personal jet stream until a possible Champions League final in Madrid on May 22, yet Fabio Capello must wring another seven weeks of energy and inspiration from him if England are to emerge from Johannesburg's Soccer City on July 11 with the World Cup in their grasp.
For both club and country, it all revolves around Rooney. Lose him to injury or fatigue between now and July and hopes of success within Old Trafford and Wembley will plunge through the floorboards.
But while the curse of the metatarsal remains in the lap of the gods, Beckham has no fears over Rooney's ability to last the pace.
The former England captain experienced Rooney's rising confidence at first hand in the San Siro and he fully expects him to prove as destructive for England as he currently is for United.
Beckham said: "Burn out won't be a problem because Wayne is ready for any game.
"It doesn't matter how many games he has played or how many he will be involved in to the end of the season, he will be ready for anything. He can sustain that level until the middle of July, of course he can. He is only 24, so he should be able to!
"He looks after himself and he works hard. The way he plays on the field is the way he plays in training and that is why he is so good.
"Without a doubt, he is one of the best goalscorers in the world and I have always said that about him. If he continues to do that, United will be even more successful than they already are."
Rooney's recent development, particularly over the last two months, has prompted Ferguson to claim that he now belongs alongside the modern-day greats of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kaka.
The three men have each received the prestigious Ballon d'Or award as European Footballer of the Year during the past three years, plus the World Player of the Year title, and now 'Goldenballs' is tipping Rooney for the Golden Ball.
Beckham said: "I hope he is a contender for the World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or. I would love to see him win every title possible. That is the way I look at Wayne.
"I have seen him from being a young lad. I played in his debut for England and I have watched him score goals week in and week out and scoring at the highest level, too. It is amazing to see.
"He is certainly looked upon as a great player in Italy. That is all the Italian people care about – whether he is doing the right thing and scoring goals. That is what they see. They see him scoring goals and working hard. The Italian people and Milan fans love people who work hard."
Rooney stole Beckham's thunder on a night when the former United midfielder faced his previous employers for the first time and Milan must prevent a repeat of that if they are to overturn their first-leg deficit at Old Trafford on March 10.
Barring an extended stay at Milan beyond the end of this season, the second-leg could be the first and last time that Beckham tackles United on their home turf.
But the 34 year-old remains hopeful that the Italians can overcome Rooney's side and progress to the quarter-finals.
Beckham said: "It doesn't matter whether there is half the game left or two minutes left, United players are brought up to believe they can win even with a minute left. But the tie isn't over.
"We know how difficult it is going to be because nobody goes to Old Trafford and gets given gifts. We are going to have to work hard and play well and if we do that we have a chance.
"Personally, I am motivated any time I come out of any tunnel but it will be a nice night at Old Trafford."
READ MORE - United we rule: Donkupar Roy (left) with D.D. Lapang Meghalaya: It’s raining chief ministers By Seema Hussain The tiny Meghalaya had 21 governments in 38 years. Just two of them completed their five-year terms. The pine-lined ‘abode of clouds’ has more to boast of. In 1978, a mere six years after formation, the state elected D.D. Pugh chief minister by lottery. In 2001, an Independent legislator, F.A. Khonglam, became CM. And now, there are four people enjoying the chief minister’s rank. D.D. Lapang became chief minister last May. Two others shared his rank—State Planning Board chairman Donkupar Roy and Meghalaya Economic Development Council chairman J.D. Rymbai, both former CMs. As if that was not enough, Lapang offered the same status to friend and state Congress president Friday Lyngdoh on January 28. Lyngdoh will not have executive powers, but will function as “political adviser” to Lapang, according to a government notification. Lyngdoh had the deputy CM rank before the elevation. “Roy and Rymbai are former chief ministers from a different party,” says opposition MLA Manas Choudhuri. “But I see no logic behind the elevation of Lyngdoh.” Congress insiders say it was appeasement. Lyngdoh has of late been voicing grievances of Lapang’s detractors. The Congress has 28 MLAs and the support of 10 from the United Democratic Party in the 60-member Assembly. The main opposition is former Lok Sabha speaker P.A. Sangma’s Nationalist Congress Party with 15 MLAs. At least eight rebel MLAs in the Congress are loyal to Lyngdoh. But the CM-rich government has few takers. “This is a bizarre attempt to ensure the longevity of the Congress government, and will put immense pressure on the state exchequer,” says Kong Norris, a schoolteacher. “Apart from four CMs the state also has a couple of deputy CMs—Mukul Sangma and Bindo Lanong.” Opposition leader Conrad Sangma says “the government is wasting money just to stick to power, and that, too, when the state does not have enough funds to pay salaries of its employees.” Lapang is unfazed. He says more MLAs would be raised to CM rank, if required. His is the third government in the state since the March 2008 elections. Any bets on how long it will last?
Hand it to him: David Beckham has hailed England team-mate Wayne Rooney
Sir Alex Ferguson's prime objective is to ensure that Rooney remains in his personal jet stream until a possible Champions League final in Madrid on May 22, yet Fabio Capello must wring another seven weeks of energy and inspiration from him if England are to emerge from Johannesburg's Soccer City on July 11 with the World Cup in their grasp.
For both club and country, it all revolves around Rooney. Lose him to injury or fatigue between now and July and hopes of success within Old Trafford and Wembley will plunge through the floorboards.
But while the curse of the metatarsal remains in the lap of the gods, Beckham has no fears over Rooney's ability to last the pace.
The former England captain experienced Rooney's rising confidence at first hand in the San Siro and he fully expects him to prove as destructive for England as he currently is for United.
Beckham said: "Burn out won't be a problem because Wayne is ready for any game.
"It doesn't matter how many games he has played or how many he will be involved in to the end of the season, he will be ready for anything. He can sustain that level until the middle of July, of course he can. He is only 24, so he should be able to!
"He looks after himself and he works hard. The way he plays on the field is the way he plays in training and that is why he is so good.
"Without a doubt, he is one of the best goalscorers in the world and I have always said that about him. If he continues to do that, United will be even more successful than they already are."
Rooney's recent development, particularly over the last two months, has prompted Ferguson to claim that he now belongs alongside the modern-day greats of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kaka.
The three men have each received the prestigious Ballon d'Or award as European Footballer of the Year during the past three years, plus the World Player of the Year title, and now 'Goldenballs' is tipping Rooney for the Golden Ball.
Beckham said: "I hope he is a contender for the World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or. I would love to see him win every title possible. That is the way I look at Wayne.
"I have seen him from being a young lad. I played in his debut for England and I have watched him score goals week in and week out and scoring at the highest level, too. It is amazing to see.
"He is certainly looked upon as a great player in Italy. That is all the Italian people care about – whether he is doing the right thing and scoring goals. That is what they see. They see him scoring goals and working hard. The Italian people and Milan fans love people who work hard."
Rooney stole Beckham's thunder on a night when the former United midfielder faced his previous employers for the first time and Milan must prevent a repeat of that if they are to overturn their first-leg deficit at Old Trafford on March 10.
Barring an extended stay at Milan beyond the end of this season, the second-leg could be the first and last time that Beckham tackles United on their home turf.
But the 34 year-old remains hopeful that the Italians can overcome Rooney's side and progress to the quarter-finals.
Beckham said: "It doesn't matter whether there is half the game left or two minutes left, United players are brought up to believe they can win even with a minute left. But the tie isn't over.
"We know how difficult it is going to be because nobody goes to Old Trafford and gets given gifts. We are going to have to work hard and play well and if we do that we have a chance.
"Personally, I am motivated any time I come out of any tunnel but it will be a nice night at Old Trafford."
AFC Challenge Cup: Defending Champions India beaten by Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan survived a second-half onslaught with just 10 men to edge out defending AFC Challenge Cup champions India 2-1 in Wednesday’s tense Group B opener at Sugathadasa Stadium.
A true poachers goal from Kyrgyzstan striker Ildar Amirov opened the scoring after 15 minutes before his diminutive strike partner Anton Zemlianuhin doubled the lead before half-time.
Kyrgyzstan captain Aibek Bokoev was sent-off at the start of the second period and India took advantage through Denzil Franco’s penalty just before the hour mark.
But despite a prolonged period of pressure Sukhwinder Singh’s young side were unable to complete the comeback.
Following a frantic but unproductive start, Zemlianuhin stung the hands of goalkeeper Karanjit Singh with a snap shot from the edge of the area after eight minutes before India’s Jibon Khangembam tried his luck with a first time shot from distance five minutes later.
But the India goalkeeper was at fault for Kyrgyzstan’s opener as Singh failed to hold Sergey Kaleutin’s low shot from the edge of the area and Amirov pounced to fire into the unguarded net.
And Zemlianuhin doubled the lead after 32 minutes as defender Dharmaraj Ravanan allowed a hopeful ball forward to bounce and the striker nipped in to take the ball in his stride before calmly beating Singh from inside the area.
India were denied an instant response just two minutes later as previously untested Kyrgyzstan goalkeeper Vladislav Volkov managed to turn Joaquim Abranches’ low drive onto the post before Singh was at full stretch to tip Amirov’s dipping strike over the bar on the stroke of half-time.
Kyrgyzstan were reduced to 10 men just over a minute after the restart as Bokoev was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Baljit Sahni, the referee clearly indicating the use of an elbow as the reason for the dismissal.
India instantly stepped up the pressure and were handed a lifeline two minutes before the hour mark as Franco converted from the spot at the second time of asking following encroachment by his team-mates after defender Rustem Usanov was adjudged to have handled a bouncing ball inside the area.
Volkov turned a powerful rising shot from India captain Sushil Chongtham over the crossbar as India continued to press a tiring Kyrgyzstan before Abranches blazed over from a promising position inside the area with only the goalkeeper to beat five from the end.
Starting XI : 29-Karanjit Singh, 14-D Ravanan, 18-Denzil Franco ,4-Rowlison Rodrigues, 17-Robert Lalthlamuana, 11-Joaquim Abranches,13-Jibon Singh,23-Jewel Raja Shaikh, 30-Baljit Sahni ,9-Balwant Singh and 10-Sushil Kumar Singh (Capt) .
Substitutes:3-NirmalChetri,33-DebabrataRoy,21-LaxmikantKattimani,12-Jeje Lalpekhlua,16-Jagtar Singh, 19-Lalrindika Ralte 8-Th Noaba Singh Coach :SukhvinderSingh .
Not Playing :22- GurpreetSingh,5-RavinderSingh,24-Subhash Singh,31-Gurvinder Singh.
READ MORE - AFC Challenge Cup: Defending Champions India beaten by Kyrgyzstan
A true poachers goal from Kyrgyzstan striker Ildar Amirov opened the scoring after 15 minutes before his diminutive strike partner Anton Zemlianuhin doubled the lead before half-time.
Kyrgyzstan captain Aibek Bokoev was sent-off at the start of the second period and India took advantage through Denzil Franco’s penalty just before the hour mark.
But despite a prolonged period of pressure Sukhwinder Singh’s young side were unable to complete the comeback.
Following a frantic but unproductive start, Zemlianuhin stung the hands of goalkeeper Karanjit Singh with a snap shot from the edge of the area after eight minutes before India’s Jibon Khangembam tried his luck with a first time shot from distance five minutes later.
But the India goalkeeper was at fault for Kyrgyzstan’s opener as Singh failed to hold Sergey Kaleutin’s low shot from the edge of the area and Amirov pounced to fire into the unguarded net.
And Zemlianuhin doubled the lead after 32 minutes as defender Dharmaraj Ravanan allowed a hopeful ball forward to bounce and the striker nipped in to take the ball in his stride before calmly beating Singh from inside the area.
India were denied an instant response just two minutes later as previously untested Kyrgyzstan goalkeeper Vladislav Volkov managed to turn Joaquim Abranches’ low drive onto the post before Singh was at full stretch to tip Amirov’s dipping strike over the bar on the stroke of half-time.
Kyrgyzstan were reduced to 10 men just over a minute after the restart as Bokoev was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Baljit Sahni, the referee clearly indicating the use of an elbow as the reason for the dismissal.
India instantly stepped up the pressure and were handed a lifeline two minutes before the hour mark as Franco converted from the spot at the second time of asking following encroachment by his team-mates after defender Rustem Usanov was adjudged to have handled a bouncing ball inside the area.
Volkov turned a powerful rising shot from India captain Sushil Chongtham over the crossbar as India continued to press a tiring Kyrgyzstan before Abranches blazed over from a promising position inside the area with only the goalkeeper to beat five from the end.
Starting XI : 29-Karanjit Singh, 14-D Ravanan, 18-Denzil Franco ,4-Rowlison Rodrigues, 17-Robert Lalthlamuana, 11-Joaquim Abranches,13-Jibon Singh,23-Jewel Raja Shaikh, 30-Baljit Sahni ,9-Balwant Singh and 10-Sushil Kumar Singh (Capt) .
Substitutes:3-NirmalChetri,33-DebabrataRoy,21-LaxmikantKattimani,12-Jeje Lalpekhlua,16-Jagtar Singh, 19-Lalrindika Ralte 8-Th Noaba Singh Coach :SukhvinderSingh .
Not Playing :22- GurpreetSingh,5-RavinderSingh,24-Subhash Singh,31-Gurvinder Singh.
AFI suspends 15 state units, approves 2010 calendar
On the final day of its two-day Annual General Meeting, the AFI also approved its 2010 calendar, which includes international meets before the Commonwealth Games in October.
Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Orissa, Delhi, Assam and Kerala were suspended for two months for holding their state championships outside the period provided in the calendar.
Jammu and Kashmir was suspended for not holding required state meets and for not sending athletes in the National Inter-District Meet.
Manipur, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim and Andaman and Nicobar were suspended for lack of athletic activities in the calendar year. All these states will remain suspended till revoked by the AGM.
Meanwhile, India will host four international meets, three Asian Grand Prixes and an Asian All Star Meet, before the Commonwealth Games to be held from October 3-14.
The first Asian GP will be held in Pune on June 1 while Bangalore and Chennai will host the second and third on June 5 and 9 respectively. The Asian All Star Meet, which will serve as the athletics test event of the CWG, will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on July 29 and 30.
National Senior Federation Cup, National Open Athletics Championships and National Inter-State Senior Athletics Meet, AFI's three flagship senior national events, will be held in Ranchi (May 1-4), Cochin (May 15-18) and Hyderabad (September 10-13) respectively.
National Youth Athletics Championships, which will be held in Coimbatore from April 23 to 25, will serve as the selection trial for the 2010 Youth Olympics in Singapore in August.
National Junior Federation Cup, to be held in Vizag (May 27-29), will serve as selection trial for the Asian Junior Championship (July 1-14) in Vietnam and World Junior Championships (July 19-25) in Canada.
In order to generate revenue from marathons and road races, which have been fast becoming multi-crore business, the AFI also decided to form a five-member Marathon and Road Race Committee to look into the matter.
The AGM also decided to ensure that maximum participation is achieved at the National Inter-District Meet, proposed to be held in Haridwar from October 27-30.
AFI Secretary Lalit Bhanot said the federation would look participation for at least 350 districts in Haridwar.
The AGM also decided to hold its meeting in December from the next calendar year after the end of competition period in November, instead of February.
AFC Challenge Cup squad announce
A 22 member squad for the upcoming AFC Challenge Cup was announced today after the completion of the preparatory camp in Pune. India will leave for Colombo on February 14 and will take on Kyrgyzstan in their opener on February 17.
India are the defending champions and are clubbed with DPR Korea, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan in Group B. India will take on Turkmenistan on February 19 in their second group B league match ,while they will face DPR Korea in their third and last group league match on February 21.
Goalkeepers: Karanjit Singh (JCT), Laxmikant Kattimani (Dempo S C), Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Kingfisher East Bengal)
Defenders: Nirmal Chetri (Kingfisher East Bengal), Ravinder Singh (Air India), Dharmaraj Ravanan (Mahindra United), Denzil Franco (Mahindra United), Debabrata Roy (Mahindra United), Rowilson Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers), Thokchom Naoba Singh (Churchill Brothers), Robert Lalthlamuana (Churchill Brothers)
Midfielders: Balwant Singh (JCT), Joaquim Abranches (Dempo S.C), Jibon Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal), Gurvinder Singh (JCT), Lalrindika Ralte (Churchill Brothers), Jewel Raja Skeikh (Dempo S C),Baljit Sahni (JCT)
Strikers: Sushil Kumar Singh (Mahindra United), Subhash Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal) Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune F.C), Jagtar Singh (Tata Football Academy)
Officials: Sukhvinder Singh (Coach), Syed Sabir Pasha (Assistant Coach), Chandru Jayaraman (Physiotherapist), Dr. Kiran Kulkarni (Doctor), Hardev Jadeja (Head of Delegation), V. M. Prithi Kumar (Masseur), Col.B M R Mehta (Media Officer), Mandar Tamhane (Manager)
READ MORE - AFC Challenge Cup squad announce
India are the defending champions and are clubbed with DPR Korea, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan in Group B. India will take on Turkmenistan on February 19 in their second group B league match ,while they will face DPR Korea in their third and last group league match on February 21.
Goalkeepers: Karanjit Singh (JCT), Laxmikant Kattimani (Dempo S C), Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Kingfisher East Bengal)
Defenders: Nirmal Chetri (Kingfisher East Bengal), Ravinder Singh (Air India), Dharmaraj Ravanan (Mahindra United), Denzil Franco (Mahindra United), Debabrata Roy (Mahindra United), Rowilson Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers), Thokchom Naoba Singh (Churchill Brothers), Robert Lalthlamuana (Churchill Brothers)
Midfielders: Balwant Singh (JCT), Joaquim Abranches (Dempo S.C), Jibon Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal), Gurvinder Singh (JCT), Lalrindika Ralte (Churchill Brothers), Jewel Raja Skeikh (Dempo S C),Baljit Sahni (JCT)
Strikers: Sushil Kumar Singh (Mahindra United), Subhash Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal) Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune F.C), Jagtar Singh (Tata Football Academy)
Officials: Sukhvinder Singh (Coach), Syed Sabir Pasha (Assistant Coach), Chandru Jayaraman (Physiotherapist), Dr. Kiran Kulkarni (Doctor), Hardev Jadeja (Head of Delegation), V. M. Prithi Kumar (Masseur), Col.B M R Mehta (Media Officer), Mandar Tamhane (Manager)
ZFC, NLYC enter ZNN semis
churachandpur, February 13 : Zomi Football Club (ZFC), Jiribam along with New Lamka Youth Club (NLYC) have advanced into the semi-finals of the Zomi Nam Ni open football tournament being held at Lamka Public ground here.
In the first match played today, ZFC ensured passage to the next round with a 2-1 defeat of Lamka Sporting Club.
The second match featuring the local favourites NLYC and seasoned campaigners Kuki Sporting Club (KSC), Imphal brought cheers to the local supporters when a penalty award was successfully slotted home for the solitary goal win.
The ball deflected from one of the KSC defenders and hit his hand within the penalty area which the referee did not hesitate in pointing to the dreaded spot.
The KSC despite several substitutions to regain their control of the match failed in their endeavour.
Meanwhile, Zillai - the Vaipheis’ student body will organise a Marathon Race to mark 100 years of Gospel in southern Manipur from Vaiphei Community Centre here to Kangvai village.
P Vaiphei, IAS will flag-off the race that will be competed by more than 200 hundred long distance runners.
Henglep MLA, T Manga Vaiphei will be chief guest of the prize distribution ceremony.
READ MORE - ZFC, NLYC enter ZNN semis
In the first match played today, ZFC ensured passage to the next round with a 2-1 defeat of Lamka Sporting Club.
The second match featuring the local favourites NLYC and seasoned campaigners Kuki Sporting Club (KSC), Imphal brought cheers to the local supporters when a penalty award was successfully slotted home for the solitary goal win.
The ball deflected from one of the KSC defenders and hit his hand within the penalty area which the referee did not hesitate in pointing to the dreaded spot.
The KSC despite several substitutions to regain their control of the match failed in their endeavour.
Meanwhile, Zillai - the Vaipheis’ student body will organise a Marathon Race to mark 100 years of Gospel in southern Manipur from Vaiphei Community Centre here to Kangvai village.
P Vaiphei, IAS will flag-off the race that will be competed by more than 200 hundred long distance runners.
Henglep MLA, T Manga Vaiphei will be chief guest of the prize distribution ceremony.
NISA Manipur beat Mohun Bagan Academy by 2-0
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 12 North Imphal Sports Association (NISA), Manipur defeated Mohun Bagan Academy, Kolkata 2-0 in the Group D quarterfinal league match of the eighth G V Raja football tournament here today.
Both the goals were scored by NISA forward Jimmy Singh in the fifth and 38th minutes of the match.
With this win, the Manipur XI needs only a draw in the the deciding match with SBT, Thiruvananthapuram tomorrow to reach the semifinals.
SBT will have to beat NISA to reach the last four.
READ MORE - NISA Manipur beat Mohun Bagan Academy by 2-0
Both the goals were scored by NISA forward Jimmy Singh in the fifth and 38th minutes of the match.
With this win, the Manipur XI needs only a draw in the the deciding match with SBT, Thiruvananthapuram tomorrow to reach the semifinals.
SBT will have to beat NISA to reach the last four.
Dr T Ao NE football tournament to be held in Imphal in Nov, '10
Imphal, February 09 2010: The prestigious biggest football tournament of the North Eastern Region, Dr T Ao North East Football Tournament 2010 will be held in Imphal in November.
Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Chairman of the North Eastern Council (NEC), Bijoy Krishna Handique has reportedly approved the proposal of holding the "Dr T Ao NE Football Tournament 2010" in Imphal in November this year.
The Union Minister is understood to have given assurances during the 58th NEC meeting held at Assam Administrative Staff College at Khanapara today that the NEC will extend all necessary assistance in terms of finance and other infrastructure to Manipur in hosting the tournament.
The proposal of Manipur hosting the said football tournament in Imphal was placed at the NEC meeting by Deputy Chairman of Manipur State Planning Board, MLA Bijoy Koijam, who presented a speech at the meeting on behalf of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi.
Manipur Governor Gurbachan Jagat and Chief Secretary DS Poonia also attended today's meeting.
Addressing the august gathering of Chief Ministers and Governors of the North Eastern states, Bijoy Koijam drew the attention of the NEC on various aspects of development in Manipur.
He urged the NEC to clear the allottment of funds for the upgradation of Tamenglong-Tamei road and Tamei-Kangpokpi road, etc.
He also pointed out the necessity for completion of construction of the Inter State Bus Terminus.
Bijoy Koijam stressed the need for commencing Imphal to Mandalay bus service.
Upgradation of the National Highways 39 and 53 requires to be accelerated in view of the upcoming Trans-Asian Highway Project.
In power sector, the Deputy Chairman of Manipur State Planning Board, Bijoy Koijam emphasised the need for modernisation and renovation of Yurembam-Mao transmission line and Leimatak-Jiribam 132 KV transmission line.
Second Circuit DC Line needs to be erected between Yaingangpokpi and Kakching and Kakching to Churachandpur, he said.
He also urged the NEC to take up necessary steps for augmentation of 132/33KV Power Station at Yurembam, Ningthoukhong and Kakching.
Bijoy Koijam further asked the NEC to establish a full fledged nursing college in Manipur.
Moreh town being the gateway to South East Asia, the border trade centre needs to be developed in all aspects, he said and pointed out the need for upgradation of the integrated check post of Moreh.
He drew the attention of the NEC on various sectors, such as Agriculture, Health, etc.
He requested the DoNER to release funds further if 60% of the works of a particular Centre sponsored project is completed.
At present, the DoNER does not release further funds unless 80% of the works of a particular Centre sponsored project is completed.
READ MORE - Dr T Ao NE football tournament to be held in Imphal in Nov, '10
Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Chairman of the North Eastern Council (NEC), Bijoy Krishna Handique has reportedly approved the proposal of holding the "Dr T Ao NE Football Tournament 2010" in Imphal in November this year.
The Union Minister is understood to have given assurances during the 58th NEC meeting held at Assam Administrative Staff College at Khanapara today that the NEC will extend all necessary assistance in terms of finance and other infrastructure to Manipur in hosting the tournament.
The proposal of Manipur hosting the said football tournament in Imphal was placed at the NEC meeting by Deputy Chairman of Manipur State Planning Board, MLA Bijoy Koijam, who presented a speech at the meeting on behalf of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi.
Manipur Governor Gurbachan Jagat and Chief Secretary DS Poonia also attended today's meeting.
Addressing the august gathering of Chief Ministers and Governors of the North Eastern states, Bijoy Koijam drew the attention of the NEC on various aspects of development in Manipur.
He urged the NEC to clear the allottment of funds for the upgradation of Tamenglong-Tamei road and Tamei-Kangpokpi road, etc.
He also pointed out the necessity for completion of construction of the Inter State Bus Terminus.
Bijoy Koijam stressed the need for commencing Imphal to Mandalay bus service.
Upgradation of the National Highways 39 and 53 requires to be accelerated in view of the upcoming Trans-Asian Highway Project.
In power sector, the Deputy Chairman of Manipur State Planning Board, Bijoy Koijam emphasised the need for modernisation and renovation of Yurembam-Mao transmission line and Leimatak-Jiribam 132 KV transmission line.
Second Circuit DC Line needs to be erected between Yaingangpokpi and Kakching and Kakching to Churachandpur, he said.
He also urged the NEC to take up necessary steps for augmentation of 132/33KV Power Station at Yurembam, Ningthoukhong and Kakching.
Bijoy Koijam further asked the NEC to establish a full fledged nursing college in Manipur.
Moreh town being the gateway to South East Asia, the border trade centre needs to be developed in all aspects, he said and pointed out the need for upgradation of the integrated check post of Moreh.
He drew the attention of the NEC on various sectors, such as Agriculture, Health, etc.
He requested the DoNER to release funds further if 60% of the works of a particular Centre sponsored project is completed.
At present, the DoNER does not release further funds unless 80% of the works of a particular Centre sponsored project is completed.
Manipur State league resumes
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Imphal, February 8 : The 4th Manipur State League football tournament resumed today at Khuman lampak Main stadium with both the second leg matches ending in draws.
The first match featuring TRAU, Kwakeithel and YWC, langthabal failed to produce an outright winner as a 47th minute David Kamson goal in the former's home match was neutralised by YWC's L Ibungobi in the 74th minute.
TRAU had won the first leg tie 3-1 .
Home side SSU, Singjamei could not repeat its first leg 2-0 win over TRUGPU, Nambol and settled for a goalless draw against the CC Meet finalist in the other match played today.
READ MORE - Manipur State league resumes
The first match featuring TRAU, Kwakeithel and YWC, langthabal failed to produce an outright winner as a 47th minute David Kamson goal in the former's home match was neutralised by YWC's L Ibungobi in the 74th minute.
TRAU had won the first leg tie 3-1 .
Home side SSU, Singjamei could not repeat its first leg 2-0 win over TRUGPU, Nambol and settled for a goalless draw against the CC Meet finalist in the other match played today.
11th SA Games 2010
Booters pass India test
Take on Afghanistan in final on Monday
Bangladesh overcame a gritty challenge from perennial rivals India to record a 1-0 win in the men's football semifinals of the 11th South Asian Games under lights at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.
They will take on Afghanistan, who beat Maldives also by a solitary goal scored by Belal Arezou in the 72nd minute in the second semifinal, in the final at the same venue on Monday.
A poacher's job from substitute Tawhidul Alam Sabuz in the 85-minute made the difference that paved the way for the football-lorn nation to reach the gold-medal match after a long gap of eleven years.
The first half was evenly played by the two sides with none taking any assertive control over the game. From the beginning, Bangladesh tried to penetrate the Indian defence using the flanks but failed to do so against a solid backline which was backed up by a tall keeper in Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Moreover, the tall Indian defenders made Bangladesh's work harder to get any aerial advantage inside the box. The Indians on the other hand seemed content with their counterattacking game, and tried to catch the Bangladesh defence off guard with sudden counterattacks.
Chances were few and far between for either side.
In the ninth minute, Zahid Hasan Ameli unleashed a fierce left-footer from the left side of the box which was brilliantly parried away by keeper Sandhu for corner.
Five minutes later, Mohammad Yousuf headed one wide of the target from an acute angle. Bangladesh's experienced custodian Aminul Haque gave a scary moment to his side on the half-hour mark as he failed to judge the bounce of the ball. The ball was heading for goal, but defender Rezaul Karim got back in time before an Indian striker to save the day for Bangladesh.
Just before the break, Mamun let fly a fierce left-footer more out of desperation, but it found the advertising board instead of the net.
Then India's Lalrindika Ralte took a swerving left-footed 35-yard freekick from the right side that was heading for the goal and Aminul had to take a few steps backward before jumping to punch it away for a corner.
Bangladesh coach Zoran Djordjevic made a few changes in the second half. He took off Enamul and Shakil early to bring on fresh legs of Mithun and Sabuz. The velocity of attack went up a few notches. The Indians were pressed inside their own half.
Bangladesh came mighty close to scoring the opener in the 67th minute when Mithun Chowdhury floated in a dangerous cross after getting the ball from Wali Faisal for a darting Yousuf inside the box. Yousuf put a firm header on it and with the goalkeeper beaten, Yousuf was only denied by the upright.
Djordjevic made another change when he brought on Abdul Baten Mojumder for Ameli. And that change seemed to work wonders. The two substitutes Mojumder and Sabuz combined to give Bangladesh their precious goal. Being on the field for hardly two minutes, Mojumder took a ferocious grounder from outside the box that was half stopped by Sandhu.
Sabuz was lurking inside the box and had the easiest job of poking the ball into the empty net. Bangladesh got their long-craven goal and the most important in recent times. There were only five minutes left after the goal for India to find an equaliser. But it was the hosts who dominated the remainder of the game and came out deserved winners.
Bangladesh qualified for the final of the regional showpiece event after long 11 years and it couldn't have been any sweeter if the opponents were any team but India. The players went on a long and richly deserved lap round the athletic track to the cheers of the 20,000-strong crowd.
READ MORE - 11th SA Games 2010
Take on Afghanistan in final on Monday
Bangladesh overcame a gritty challenge from perennial rivals India to record a 1-0 win in the men's football semifinals of the 11th South Asian Games under lights at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.
They will take on Afghanistan, who beat Maldives also by a solitary goal scored by Belal Arezou in the 72nd minute in the second semifinal, in the final at the same venue on Monday.
A poacher's job from substitute Tawhidul Alam Sabuz in the 85-minute made the difference that paved the way for the football-lorn nation to reach the gold-medal match after a long gap of eleven years.
The first half was evenly played by the two sides with none taking any assertive control over the game. From the beginning, Bangladesh tried to penetrate the Indian defence using the flanks but failed to do so against a solid backline which was backed up by a tall keeper in Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Moreover, the tall Indian defenders made Bangladesh's work harder to get any aerial advantage inside the box. The Indians on the other hand seemed content with their counterattacking game, and tried to catch the Bangladesh defence off guard with sudden counterattacks.
Chances were few and far between for either side.
In the ninth minute, Zahid Hasan Ameli unleashed a fierce left-footer from the left side of the box which was brilliantly parried away by keeper Sandhu for corner.
Five minutes later, Mohammad Yousuf headed one wide of the target from an acute angle. Bangladesh's experienced custodian Aminul Haque gave a scary moment to his side on the half-hour mark as he failed to judge the bounce of the ball. The ball was heading for goal, but defender Rezaul Karim got back in time before an Indian striker to save the day for Bangladesh.
Just before the break, Mamun let fly a fierce left-footer more out of desperation, but it found the advertising board instead of the net.
Then India's Lalrindika Ralte took a swerving left-footed 35-yard freekick from the right side that was heading for the goal and Aminul had to take a few steps backward before jumping to punch it away for a corner.
Bangladesh coach Zoran Djordjevic made a few changes in the second half. He took off Enamul and Shakil early to bring on fresh legs of Mithun and Sabuz. The velocity of attack went up a few notches. The Indians were pressed inside their own half.
Bangladesh came mighty close to scoring the opener in the 67th minute when Mithun Chowdhury floated in a dangerous cross after getting the ball from Wali Faisal for a darting Yousuf inside the box. Yousuf put a firm header on it and with the goalkeeper beaten, Yousuf was only denied by the upright.
Djordjevic made another change when he brought on Abdul Baten Mojumder for Ameli. And that change seemed to work wonders. The two substitutes Mojumder and Sabuz combined to give Bangladesh their precious goal. Being on the field for hardly two minutes, Mojumder took a ferocious grounder from outside the box that was half stopped by Sandhu.
Sabuz was lurking inside the box and had the easiest job of poking the ball into the empty net. Bangladesh got their long-craven goal and the most important in recent times. There were only five minutes left after the goal for India to find an equaliser. But it was the hosts who dominated the remainder of the game and came out deserved winners.
Bangladesh qualified for the final of the regional showpiece event after long 11 years and it couldn't have been any sweeter if the opponents were any team but India. The players went on a long and richly deserved lap round the athletic track to the cheers of the 20,000-strong crowd.
Zomi football
Churachandpur, Feb 7 : The knock-out phase of the Zomi Nam Ni football tournament will begin from tomorrow with more than 15 teams from the state in contention for the Rs 1 lakh top prize on offered.
In Churachandpur, 16 clubs played for the top five spots and will compete against four state level teams including, YDO, DOAK Yairipok, NESU and KSC.
clubs from Mizoram, teams from Jiribam sub-division and Ukhrul district will also participate.
The tournament recognised by AMFA and CDSA is being touted as the most prestigious tournament to ever in Churachandpur.
DC Jacintha Lazarus will grace the opening match tomorrow at 12.30 between LSC and DOAK.
READ MORE - Zomi football
In Churachandpur, 16 clubs played for the top five spots and will compete against four state level teams including, YDO, DOAK Yairipok, NESU and KSC.
clubs from Mizoram, teams from Jiribam sub-division and Ukhrul district will also participate.
The tournament recognised by AMFA and CDSA is being touted as the most prestigious tournament to ever in Churachandpur.
DC Jacintha Lazarus will grace the opening match tomorrow at 12.30 between LSC and DOAK.
Mohun Bagan sacks coach
Mohun Bagan reacted to its successive I-League defeats in Goa — against Salgaocar SC and Dempo SC in last two rounds — by sacking Moroccan coach Karim Bencherifa on Thursday.
Mohun Bagan appointed its former player and assistant coach Satyajit Chatterjee for the job an hour after announcing the termination of Bencherifa. Chatterjee has been given charge of the team for the next four months, that is, till the end of the current season.
Bencherifa, who had joined Mohun Bagan from Churchill Brothers amidst fanfare in March 2008, said it was a mutual decision “to part ways after having analysed together the situation of the club.”
Unusual scene
In an unusual scene the departing coach and the Mohun Bagan secretary, Anjan Mitra, along with the club treasurer Debashish Dutta held a joint news conference to announce the decision, which the club officials explained was forced by the “rising expectations of the club supporters.”
Unlike in the previous occasions when the coaches were unceremoniously dumped, the club officials chose to be different with Bencherifa and praised him for bringing a lot of success to the team in the last season (where the club won three titles and became the runner-up thrice). “We are unable to retain him as the supporters are eager to see a repetition of last year’s success, which he has not been able to produce this time,” Mitra said denying reports of a players’ mutiny against the coach.
“We are just six points away from the leader and three points off the second placed side at the half-way stage of the I-League. Which means we are still in a position to win the title,” said the Moroccan coach while evaluating the team’s performance this season.
“Ours was a like a dream team but recurrent injuries to a lot of key players prevented me from fielding the best combination in any match,” Bencherifa said.
He added that he would take a few days’ rest before making his next move.
READ MORE - Mohun Bagan sacks coach
Mohun Bagan appointed its former player and assistant coach Satyajit Chatterjee for the job an hour after announcing the termination of Bencherifa. Chatterjee has been given charge of the team for the next four months, that is, till the end of the current season.
Bencherifa, who had joined Mohun Bagan from Churchill Brothers amidst fanfare in March 2008, said it was a mutual decision “to part ways after having analysed together the situation of the club.”
Unusual scene
In an unusual scene the departing coach and the Mohun Bagan secretary, Anjan Mitra, along with the club treasurer Debashish Dutta held a joint news conference to announce the decision, which the club officials explained was forced by the “rising expectations of the club supporters.”
Unlike in the previous occasions when the coaches were unceremoniously dumped, the club officials chose to be different with Bencherifa and praised him for bringing a lot of success to the team in the last season (where the club won three titles and became the runner-up thrice). “We are unable to retain him as the supporters are eager to see a repetition of last year’s success, which he has not been able to produce this time,” Mitra said denying reports of a players’ mutiny against the coach.
“We are just six points away from the leader and three points off the second placed side at the half-way stage of the I-League. Which means we are still in a position to win the title,” said the Moroccan coach while evaluating the team’s performance this season.
“Ours was a like a dream team but recurrent injuries to a lot of key players prevented me from fielding the best combination in any match,” Bencherifa said.
He added that he would take a few days’ rest before making his next move.
23 AFC Challenge Cup
The AIFF have announced the probable list for the AFC Challenge Cup preparatory camp to be held in Pune from February 4′th. Following are the 29 players called up for the coaching camp and it include the Shillong Lajong striker Seikhohao Tuboi.Goalkeepers: Arindam Bhattacharya (Churchill Brothers), Karanjit Singh (JCT), Laxmikant Kattimani (Dempo S C), Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Kingfisher East Bengal)
Defenders: Nirmal Chetri (Kingfisher East Bengal), Ravinder Singh (Air India), Dharmaraj Ravanan (Mahindra United), Denzil Franco (Mahindra United), Debabrata Roy (Mahindra United), Rowilson Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers), Thokchom Naoba Singh (Churchill Brothers ), Robert Lalthlamuana (Churchill Brothers), Raju Eknath Gaikwad (Tata Football Academy)
Midfielders: Baldeep Singh (JCT), Balwant Singh (JCT), Joaquim Abranches (Dempo S.C), Jibon Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal), Gurvinder Singh (JCT), Lalrindika Ralte (Churchill Brothers), Subodh Kumar (Tata Football Academy), Jewel Raja Skeikh (Dempo S C), Manish Maithani (Mohun Bagan), N. Mohanraj (Mohun Bagan), Baljit Sahni (JCT)
Strikers: Sushil Kumar Singh (Mahindra United), Subhash Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal) Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune F.C), Jagtar Singh (Tata Football Academy), S. Tuboi (Shillong Lajong F.C)
Officials: Sukhvinder Singh (Coach), Syed Sabir Pasha (Assistant Coach), Chandru Jayaraman (Physiotherapist), Dr. Kiran Kulkarni (Doctor), Hardev Jadeja (Head of Delegation)
Lajong FC becomes first North east team to play in First Division league
Guwahati, Feb 1 :
The Lajong Football Club- which is the pride of Northeast football, was recently promoted to the I-League First Division for the 2009-10.
Soccer mania is at its peak in the northeast and the discussion everywhere from roadside kiosks to government offices, is about Lajong, the first team from the Northeast to storm into the elite First division-league.
India's Northeast is regarded as the nursery of soccer. Hence, every kid fantasizes about bending it like Baichung Bhutia.
Top guns in many Indian football clubs hail from this region, but lamentably there are no professional clubs in the region.
The Lajong Football Club promises to achieve a whole lot more.
Their dream run in 31st Federation Cup recently was a testimony to the team's potential.
"our team is too young. However, the result of The Federation Cup and the success of The Federation Cup get a lot of hope for this team. Its that, this team has a lot of potential, true talent," said Jeremy Walang, a member of the club's support staff.
Established in 1983 to improve football standards, the Lajong Football Club has worked their skins out in the last 25 years.
After a history of 26 defeats, and then a striking performance in the Federation Cup, Lajong is now an inspiration for other clubs in the north east to take the game to the next level.
They exemplify the belief that "NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE" if the will to do it exists.
"The Government should come up with the development programme for football in this region. They should start and engross with the root level like school tournament and other things," said Coach Stanley Razario.
It has hoped that the government will help to promote the game that has become hugely popular in the region. By D. Henpilen
READ MORE - Lajong FC becomes first North east team to play in First Division league
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Soccer mania is at its peak in the northeast and the discussion everywhere from roadside kiosks to government offices, is about Lajong, the first team from the Northeast to storm into the elite First division-league.
India's Northeast is regarded as the nursery of soccer. Hence, every kid fantasizes about bending it like Baichung Bhutia.
Top guns in many Indian football clubs hail from this region, but lamentably there are no professional clubs in the region.
The Lajong Football Club promises to achieve a whole lot more.
Their dream run in 31st Federation Cup recently was a testimony to the team's potential.
"our team is too young. However, the result of The Federation Cup and the success of The Federation Cup get a lot of hope for this team. Its that, this team has a lot of potential, true talent," said Jeremy Walang, a member of the club's support staff.
Established in 1983 to improve football standards, the Lajong Football Club has worked their skins out in the last 25 years.
After a history of 26 defeats, and then a striking performance in the Federation Cup, Lajong is now an inspiration for other clubs in the north east to take the game to the next level.
They exemplify the belief that "NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE" if the will to do it exists.
"The Government should come up with the development programme for football in this region. They should start and engross with the root level like school tournament and other things," said Coach Stanley Razario.
It has hoped that the government will help to promote the game that has become hugely popular in the region. By D. Henpilen
G V Raja quarter league: Sesa Goa thrash MEG
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The youth brigade of Sesa Goa thrashed Madras Engineering Group (MEG), Bangalore, 3-1 in the first match of the quarter league round of the 8th G V Raja All-India Football Tournament in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday.
The first goal of the match, which exposed all the weakness of the MEG team, came in the 12th minute following a sloppy effort by the MEG defence line up.
Taking advantage of the delay in clearing the ball by MEG men away from their penalty box, Marcus Maschrenas quickly snatched the ball and fired into the nets giving a 1-0 lead for the Goan team comprising only under-21 players.
Without giving much time for recovery, the second blow for MEG came in the 15th minute. This time it was Goan junior state player Savio Canario attacking from the right. The left-foot kick by Savio landed in the nets over the MEG goal-keeper Kannan. For the next few minutes, the stadium witnessed the MEG players attacking the Goan post with all their guns blazing.
With some regular co-ordinated moves, they earned five corners and some freekicks. But, none of them was converted. MEG striker Ngurneilal Hmar, who scored a hatrick in the knockout round, was tightly marked by the Goan defenders.
On the other hand, Goan strikers were found moving freely in the opponents penalty box. MEG’s solitary goal came in the 33rd minute with the Malayali player Ajiraj K Philip successfully converting the cross from Shiyad.
In the 42nd minute, Marcus Maschrenas again exploited the lapse in the MEG defence. From the mid-field, it was a race between the MEG defender and Marcus for some time.
From just near the goal-post, Marcus lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Kannan, who was proceeding towards him, and extended the lead to 3-1.
Though Marcus continued to attack regularly, MEG did not concede any goal in the second half, thanks to MEG’s coach S P Shaji’s decision to bring goalkeeper Amit Shaw in for Kannan.
The decision was proved right in the second minute of the second half with Amit successfully blocking the shot from Marcus. The genuine chance for MEG in the second half was missed by Sarat Singh in the 87th minute.
READ MORE - G V Raja quarter league: Sesa Goa thrash MEG
The first goal of the match, which exposed all the weakness of the MEG team, came in the 12th minute following a sloppy effort by the MEG defence line up.
Taking advantage of the delay in clearing the ball by MEG men away from their penalty box, Marcus Maschrenas quickly snatched the ball and fired into the nets giving a 1-0 lead for the Goan team comprising only under-21 players.
Without giving much time for recovery, the second blow for MEG came in the 15th minute. This time it was Goan junior state player Savio Canario attacking from the right. The left-foot kick by Savio landed in the nets over the MEG goal-keeper Kannan. For the next few minutes, the stadium witnessed the MEG players attacking the Goan post with all their guns blazing.
With some regular co-ordinated moves, they earned five corners and some freekicks. But, none of them was converted. MEG striker Ngurneilal Hmar, who scored a hatrick in the knockout round, was tightly marked by the Goan defenders.
On the other hand, Goan strikers were found moving freely in the opponents penalty box. MEG’s solitary goal came in the 33rd minute with the Malayali player Ajiraj K Philip successfully converting the cross from Shiyad.
In the 42nd minute, Marcus Maschrenas again exploited the lapse in the MEG defence. From the mid-field, it was a race between the MEG defender and Marcus for some time.
From just near the goal-post, Marcus lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Kannan, who was proceeding towards him, and extended the lead to 3-1.
Though Marcus continued to attack regularly, MEG did not concede any goal in the second half, thanks to MEG’s coach S P Shaji’s decision to bring goalkeeper Amit Shaw in for Kannan.
The decision was proved right in the second minute of the second half with Amit successfully blocking the shot from Marcus. The genuine chance for MEG in the second half was missed by Sarat Singh in the 87th minute.
Referees place new demands
Imphal, Feb 1: The deadlock over the resumption of the 4th Manipur State League continues as the Football Referees’ Welfare Committee has put up fresh demands to the All Manipur Football Association (AMFA).
The referees were irked when the AMFA drew the next part of the fixture before holding a meeting with them to thrash out the differences beforehand.
In response, they convened a second meeting to chart out their next moves.
Apart from their main demand for armed security and medical assistance with ambulance at the match venue, the referees had now laid emphasis on amending the AMFA disciplinary code, calling for more stringent penalty for players as well as team officials who assaulted the referees. They wanted the association to hold the team responsible for any such event.
The referees also dwelt on the possibility for AMFA to initiate criminal proceedings against the spectators and fans, who invade the field and assault referees in the future.
Eight Clubs Can Win The I-League This Season - Churchill Brothers' Carlos Pareira
No clear favourite in the title race...
By Rahul Bali
01-Feb-2010 7:18:00 AM
Churchill Brothers are only four points behind league leaders Dempo SC but considering the crammed schedule of the I-League champions with their continental affairs, the going will only get tougher for Carlos Pareira’s boys.
Ever since the Federation Cup defeat at the hands of Shillong Lajong, the club has continued their poor form in the New Year having failed to win any of their four I-League games, with three draws and a defeat. The Goan side could only manage to score four goals in those matches which would surely be of concern to the Brazilian coach, who refuses to acknowledge it.
“Sometimes, it happens in football. No one can play well all the time,” philosophizes Pareira.
Injuries have become another major cause of headache at the club with several players having being ruled out for the season.
“Paite had an operation and he, along with Bineesh, are out for the almost the full season. Durga Boro might be with us when the I-League resumes. Robert is complaining of an ankle injury. We have had a lot of injuries this year,” highlighting some of the dilemma he faces.
Churchill face Salgaocar test on Monday and they can’t afford to drop any more points which see them fall off the pace in the title defence.
“I saw Salgaocar beat Mohun Bagan the other day. They played well but we need points and it’s a very crucial match for us.”
At the start of the I-League, Pareira had mentioned the name of Pune FC as one of the title contenders and that left everyone dumbfounded! However, with Pune winning four games on a trot, it does seem that they are in it.
“As many as eight clubs have a chance to win the title this season. Pune FC, Mumbai FC are also in it. I believe to become a champion; you would need at least 50 points,” added the former East Bengal coach.
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