Players from Sovima United FC (White) and Medziphema United FC (Green) with Jacob Zhimomi, Minister, PHED and officials at Local Ground, Chümoukedima on September 17. (Morung Photo)
Sovima United FC draws against Medziphema United FC
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | September 17
Realising the need towards training and motivating budding young talents from the new district, the Chümoukedima District Football Association (CDFA) launched the 1st District Football League 2022 at Chümoukedima local ground on September 17 with Jacob Zhimomi, Minister, PHED invited as special guest for the inaugural ceremony.
Zhimomi noted that sport is a medium that brings together many communities. Many talented Naga sportspersons have also emerged over the years. This is because the greatest asset of a society is in its human resource, especially the youths as they are well informed, dynamic and capable to take on any challenges. “Therefore, Chümoukedima is blessed to have such a generation leading us ahead in the future,” he said.
He also spoke about Khelo India and the facilities which will be provided by the government through this initiative. “I want to inspire upon all of you that there is job security in all these fields,” he added.
Further, mentioning that the government has been pursuing measures to give gainful employment opportunities in any given field he said that equal opportunity has been laid out for every individual.
“As a representative of Chümoukedima, the development and aspirations of our youth is always in my mind,” Zhimomi stated.
Besides these points, he gave his remarks on the ongoing Naga political issue which is at the final ends of conclusion.
The Government of India and the Naga political groups have been negotiating to arrive at an agreed upon position. As such the public needs to create conducive atmosphere where peace can be achieved, he stressed.
Furthermore, Zhimomi reminded upon the gathering that the youths should not only be employed but should be motivated as well to grow in their own careers. “Youths should come forward and be committed in what they do.” In conclusion, he felt optimistic that Chümoukedima is going to be a very promising district.
In the inaugural match, Medziphema United FC (Green) faced off against Sovima United FC (White) as both teams chose an extremely aggressive style of play. For most of the first-half, players from Sovima had the upper hand against their opponents, as they had greater ball possession and better passes.
However, as the second-half rolled on, both sides were given equal goal scoring opportunities but each attempt failed to find the net.
The match ended in a goal-less draw as the crowds dispersed with a feeling of dissatisfaction and dejection.
A total of 8 teams will be participating in the 12 day tournament. CDFA officials have informed that each team is allowed to equip 5 guest players for their side. These include Naga professional players from clubs such as Shillong Lajong FC and Gokulam FC.
A cash prize of Rs 1.5 lakh will be awarded to the winners of the tournament while Rs 80,000 will be given to the first runner up team.
September 19 match fixture
• Eimi Brother’s FC vs Naga United FC (8:30 am)
• Gorkha Panthers FC vs United Falcon FC (1:30 pm)
• Chümoukedima FC vs Piphema United FC (3:30 pm)
