Sungkomen Ward emerged as the champions of the 3rd Mokokchung Inter-Ward Volleyball Tournament 2024, claiming the title for the second time in the tournament’s history. The tournament, held at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex, featured fierce competition among eight participating wards, culminating in a thrilling final against the defending champions, Kumlong Ward.
The championship match was a display of high-caliber volleyball, with Sungkomen securing victory in four intense sets, despite the match being scheduled for five. Sungkomen took the first set with a narrow 26-24 win, but defending champion Kumlong quickly responded by dominating the second set, 25-15. The third set saw Sungkomen bounce back with a 25-17 win, and they sealed their victory with another close 26-24 triumph in the fourth set.
Sungkomen’s performance in the final was marked by a shaky start, with the team losing several points due to unforced errors. The fatigue was evident as the team had just an hour’s rest after their semi-final match before heading into the final. However, they quickly regrouped and capitalized on their opportunities, despite the challenge posed by Kumlong Ward’s marquee players, Tsuknungtemjen and Watilong, whose powerful jumps and spikes tested Sungkomen’s defense. In the end, Sungkomen’s resilience and teamwork carried them to a hard-fought victory.
The final tournament had Mangyangnungba, President NDPP Mokokchung Region, as the Guest of Honor. In his address, he praised the Kumlong Sporting Association for nurturing players capable of representing Nagaland on larger platforms. He also highlighted the positive changes in the sports landscape under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the PDA government, noting that sports, once played only for recreation, have now become a viable career option. He urged the gathering to be able to make a living with talent.
The match was characterized by both teams’ competitive spirit and sportsmanship, though fatigue led to mistakes on both sides. Kumlong Ward, led by notable players like Rishitemjen and Satemmeren, put up a strong fight but ultimately could not overcome Sungkomen’s persistence.
One of the tournament’s standout players was Sentizulu, the youngest player and libero of the Sungkomen team. His agility and defensive skills were crucial in his team’s success, earning him recognition as one of the rising stars in Mokokchung’s volleyball scene.
In addition to the championship trophy, Sungkomen Ward received a cash prize, certificates, and a cup. The runners-up, Kumlong Ward, were also honored for their commendable performance throughout the tournament. Individual awards were given to Niuto of Sungkomen Ward for Best Setter, Nengshitemjen of Sungkomen Ward for Best Spiker, and Tsuknungtemjen of Kumlong Ward for Player of the Tournament.
Sungkomen Ward’s victory is especially notable as they were the inaugural champions of the tournament, while Kumlong Ward had claimed the title in the second edition. This year’s tournament further solidifies Sungkomen’s reputation as a formidable force in Mokokchung volleyball.
Earlier, in the first semifinal match, Kumlong defeated Penli 25-17, 25-13, 25-15 while eventual champions Sungkomen defeated Artang 25-20, 31-29, 25-23, 25-20.
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