Defending Champion Hmar FC defeated in Tamchon Football Final

New Delhi, Nov 30, 2014 – The much-anticipated final match of the 8th North-East Tamchon Football Tournament between defending champions Hmar FC and the formidable Siamsinpawlpi (SSPP) FC kicked off on Saturday evening (Nov 30) at Dr. Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi. The stadium was filled with thousands of enthusiastic football fans from the national capital, all eager to witness the thrilling showdown.

The closing ceremony was graced by Omkarmal Ketia, Joint Secretary of Sports (YAS) and a representative from the Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal’s office, along with several dignitaries, including Anil Sharma, BJP-MLA, RK Puram (Delhi), Ram Muivah, IAS, Principal Secretary, Govt of Manipur, Haukhum Hauzel, IAS (retd), former Chief Secretary of Mizoram, Suakzathang Nunthuk, IRS, Commissioner of Customs & Central Excise, Noida (UP), and others.

The match began with a ceremonial kick from the chief guest, marking the start of an intense contest. In the first half, SSPP FC (Paite Students' Welfare Association) dominated possession but was unable to convert their efforts into goals. A close attempt came when an SSPP player’s shot was blocked by Hmar’s goalkeeper, only for the rebound to fly over the crossbar. Despite Hmar’s best efforts, they couldn’t break through SSPP’s well-organized defense.

The first half ended in a tense stalemate, showcasing remarkable teamwork and ball passing from SSPP. Hmar, however, remained strong near the goal, promising a fierce second half.

The second half brought a thrilling display of football. Paukhongam (Jersey No. 12) of SSPP FC scored the opening goal in the 77th minute, sending the SSPP supporters into ecstatic celebrations. But Hmar responded quickly; Thomson (Jersey No. 10) equalized in the 86th minute, bringing the match level at 1-1. With no further goals in regular time, the match went into extra time.

In extra time, both teams pushed forward, but neither could score. The turning point came when an SSPP player was fouled in the penalty area, awarding them a penalty kick. With fans holding their breath, the penalty kick was taken—only for the ball to soar over the crossbar, much to the relief of Hmar supporters.

The match moved to a penalty shoot-out, with Hmar FC taking the first shot, which was successfully converted. SSPP answered with a goal of their own. The shoot-out continued with both teams alternating goals, but in the end, Hmar FC emerged victorious with a 6-5 score in the shoot-out after a dramatic final save by Hmar’s goalkeeper.

This victory marks a second consecutive title for Hmar FC. If they win again next year, the trophy will be theirs permanently. From 2014, Delhi Dynamos FC will sponsor Hmar FC once again.

Individual Awards:

• Best Coach: Israel, Coach of Senapati FC
• Top Scorer: K Lalrintluanga of SSPP FC (8 Goals)
• Best Defender: Daniel Hmar of Hmar FC
• Best Goalkeeper: Prem Kumar of Senapati FC
• Best Manager: K.G. Jaojian, Manager of Zeliangrong FC
• Player of the Tournament: Ngurneilal Sanate of Hmar FC

Prize Distribution:

• Runners-Up (SSPP FC): Rs 3 Lakhs
• Champions (Hmar FC): Rs 5 Lakhs
• Third-Place (Hornbill FC): Rs 2 Lakhs for their victory over Senapati FC, with a 1-0 score, courtesy of Daya Elangbam's goal in the 29th minute.

Entertainment:
The audience was treated to performances by Red Light Passengers, Roslyn Lalumpui, Maker Kashung, and Khanthing Shimray. The Lion Dance of Sikkim and Bihu Dance of Assam also captured the crowd's attention during the closing ceremony.

Tournament Overview:
Sixteen Northeast teams competed for the prestigious trophy from November 29-30, 2014. The tournament, organized annually by the Tangkhul Naga Society Delhi, honors the memory of late RN Tamchon, an IPS officer and former Additional Commissioner of Delhi Police, who passed away in 2006. The event’s theme, “Fairplay, Unity, Friendship, and Understanding,” reflects the legacy of Tamchon’s contributions to both his community and the sport.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
THE MIZORAM POST | MANIPUR CHRONICLE | ZOGAM TODAY

 

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