Imphal, June 11: Championship sponsors 26 Sector Assam Rifles wrested the Chandel District Level Football Tournament title downing a determined Panchai Sporting Cultural Club in an exciting final at Maha Union High School ground today.

The title clash that witnessed dominance swing from one side to the other began with GP Rongmai providing the lead for 26 Sector AR as Angtha restored parity for Panchai before the same player struck again to overtake the lead amid thunderous applause from the spectators who virtually occupied every available space in the vast ground.

The joyous mood of the Panchai supporters turned gloom as L Haokip levelled the score for the AR team before T James struck the tournament winner minutes later.

The champion team received the glittering trophy and cash prize of Rs 3000 from chief guest brig RA Lewis, Commander 26 Sector AR while the runners-up Panchai Sporting Cultural Club had to be satisfied with Rs 2000 and participation certificate.

The Commander complementing all the teams and members of the public for their whole hearted support in making the competition a grand success assured of making the tournament an annual event.

The endeavour and commitment of the Assam Rifles in tapping talented sportspersons from the State and nurture them into national and international level performers is unquestionable, asserted the Brigadier.

Chief Coordinator of NYK Paulina Monsang and 24 AR CO Col KS Kadian also graced the final match and the closing programme.

L Haokip was declared best player of the tournament organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra, Chandel as the top scorer honour went to Angtha of Panchai Sporting Cultural Club.

Lambung Youth and Cultural Club was adjudged the best team of the tournament with HT Holngam of Panchai SCC bagging the best goalkeeper award.

Prior to the tournament�s final play, a women�s exhibition match enthralled the crowd and set the sporting spirit of the summit clash.

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