Lamka, February 18, 2010: The much awaited grand finale of the inaugural Zomi Nam Ni Open Invitation Football tournament ended on a disappointing note as Ukhrul Football Club failed to re-enact its previous performances and suffered a crushing 1-3 defeat to favourites Zomi Football Club at Public Ground, here today.

Expecting a keen tussle in the final match, a huge turn-out occupied almost the entire ground and beyond but the local team eventually lived upto their championship favourites tag by dominating the match and claiming the top prize of Rs 1 lakh.

ZFC established a comfortable 2-0 lead in the first half when Tiken netted the opener in the 21st and Golmei doubled the advantage with a 44th minute strike.

Even though Ukhrul FC missed to convert a penalty award after resumption of the lemon break (83rd), which the ZFC custodian Nangsuanlun denied with a diving save, ZG Matainee prevented the Ukhrul side from total rout with an injury time goal.

However, Tiken's second goal of the match in the 81st minute had ensured the local favourite the coveted title.

UFC were awarded Rs 50,000. Nangsuanlun was declared the tournament's best goalkeeper, while Ukhrul duo Kongreikham and AS Themreishang respectively bagged the best player and top scorer prizes, each carrying Rs 5000 award.

Lamka Sporting Club walked away with the best discipline award of same amount.

Commissioner (YAS) L Lakher graced the final match as the chief guest.

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