Longjang: Mongsen Ait Marok Football Trophy turns 50

Longjang, 19 December (MTNews): The Mongsen Ait Marok Football Trophy kicked off its 50th year of hosting football matches in Longjang village, Mokokchung on 18 December. The event is organized by the Mongsen Ait Club (MAC), Longjang. The Golden Jubilee event, graced by LL Group Managing Director Longden Longkumer as Chief Guest, brought together players, enthusiasts, and community members for a day of sportsmanship and celebration.

Longkumer commended Mongsen Ait Club (MAC) for its decades-long dedication to nurturing young talents and providing a platform for their aspirations. He urged players to stay away from harmful substances and embrace discipline and dedication, echoing the stories of successful players who rose from humble beginnings.

TN Mannen, Advisor, Law and Justice, Land Revenue in his message paid tribute to the club for being a pioneer in cultivating young talents in the field of sports.

S Jongpong Imsong delved into the history of the club, noting its inception in 1961 as Lt. Tekatemba Trophy and subsequent rebranding in 1963 as the Mongsen Ait Trophy, which has produced renowned players over the years.

The President of the Club, Yapang Aier, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to present and past members for achieving this golden milestone.

Match Report: Day One Highlights
The opening match saw the host team, Mongsen Ait Club, dominate against Khanimu Citizens Club, securing a 3-0 victory. The second match witnessed a goal extravaganza as Longkoi of Salaksalaker scored five goals in the first half, leading to a resounding 12-1 victory over Lametong Youth Association.

Omega triumphed over Aningchen 3-2 in the third match, while Yimsen Youth Club (A) defeated Yimsen Youth Club (B) with a scoreline of 3-0 in the fourth match. The final match of the day witnessed a tough competition between Rebels and Mongsen Ait Club, with Rebels securing a 2-1 victory.

Day Two Highlights
The second day showcased impressive performances, including Sentinungsang scoring two goals and Ayenmongba and Winamthiu adding one each against Salaksalaker, concluding with a 5-1 victory. Omega and Lumedang in the 7th match of the tournament shared 2 goals each ending in a draw.

Chargers FC continued their winning streak with an 8-0 victory over Yimsen Youth Club, while Rebels FC secured a 1-0 victory over Khanimu Citizens Club in a slow-paced match. Gilgal FC dominated Lametong with a staggering 10-1 victory, and Aningchen faced defeat against Lomuden with a score of 4-0.

The last leg matches witnessed Chargers FC defeating Yimsen Youth Club-A with a single goal by Yangersosang.

The opening quarter-final clash of the tournament witnessed an intense battle between Salaksalaker and Rebels FC, culminating in a 60-minute match that ended with both teams scoring 2 goals each. The deadlock persisted through additional minutes, leading to a dramatic shootout. In the end, Salaksalaker emerged victorious with a 5-3 triumph.

In the second quarter-final showdown, Gilgal secured a narrow victory over the host team, Mongsen Ait Club, with a lone goal.

Upcoming Quarter-Finals and Grand Finale
As the tournament enters its third and final day, spectators can anticipate another exciting quarter-final match between Lumoden and Yimsen Youth Club-B. Meanwhile, Chargers FC and Omega are geared up to extend their winning streaks in the upcoming fourth quarter-final. The stage is set for thrilling encounters as teams vie for a coveted spot in the grand finale of the Mongsen Ait Marok Football Trophy and a cash prize of 1 lakh rupees.