SENAPATI, Feb 24: The 5th Edition of the (Late) Lt Col Robert (TA) Memorial Open Football Tournament concluded on Tuesday at the Astro Turf Ground, Senapati, drawing a massive public turnout and an enthusiastic response from football lovers across the region. Recognised as the second biggest football tournament in Manipur, the 18-day event commenced on February 5 and concluded on February 24.

The closing ceremony was graced by Brigadier Anshuman Tripathi, Commander 22 Sector Assam Rifles, as the Chief Guest. Mrs. Chingpai Rangnamei, wife of Late Lt Col Robert (TA) and the guiding force behind the tournament, graced the occasion, adding a heartfelt and poignant dimension to the event.

The tournament was organised by the 16 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ 22 Sector, Assam Rifles, and HQ IGAR (East), in coordination with the Senapati District Olympic Association, Manipur. A total of 19 teams participated in the tournament, representing the districts of Senapati, Kangpokpi, Imphal, Ukhrul and Chandel, along with teams from Nagaland. The event also featured the participation of an international player.

The tournament brought together 9 Naga teams, 8 Kuki teams and 2 Gorkha teams, showcasing exemplary sportsmanship and communal harmony. A total of 36 thrilling matches were played between February 5 and 16, while the quarter-finals and semi-finals were conducted from February 18 to 22 in an intense league-cum-knockout format.

The highly anticipated final match between Pou Legend FC and Hills Academy FC delivered an electrifying contest, showcasing exceptional skill and determination from both teams in their quest for the coveted trophy. In a nail-biting encounter, Hills Academy FC thus emerged victorious with a 7-6 scoreline in the penalty shootout after extra time, successfully defending their title.

Assam Rifles, as part of its Civil Action Programme, sponsored prizes under various categories recognising both individual and team performances. The quarter-finalist teams were awarded a cash prize of Rs 15,000 each, while the semi-finalists received Rs 30,000 each.

Individual honours were presented as follows: Best Goalkeeper was awarded to Mohammad Nadiya of Pou Legend FC; Best Player of the Tournament went to P.M. Rakeveiche of Pou Legend FC and the Golden Boot award was claimed by George of Hills Academy FC. Each individual awardee received Rs 10,000, a gold medal and a mountain bike.

The Champion team, Hills Academy FC, received a grand prize of Rs 3.5 lakh, while the runners-up, Pou Legend FC, were awarded Rs 1.5 lakh.

The 5th edition of the (Late) Lt Col Robert TA Memorial Open Football Tournament has been a resounding success. Assam Rifles expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Senapati community and their tireless efforts in making the event possible. The tournament stands as a fitting tribute to the memory of Lt Col Robert TA and his enduring passion for football.