SENAPATI, April 10: Khyouchi VFC emerged victorious in the 1st Poumai Veteran Football Tournament after a thrilling penalty shootout win against Range Rover VFC in the final match held at the Astro Turf Ground, on Wednesday.

Organized by the Poumai Veteran Sports Association (PVSA), the tournament featured 12 teams from the Poumai community. The closing ceremony was graced by MLA J. Kumo Sha of 47-Karong Assembly Constituency as the chief guest, with B H Alexander, President of the Senapati District Veteran Football Association, as the guest of honour.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Kumo Sha urged members of the veteran association to identify and promote young sporting talents. He also encouraged veteran players to maintain their fitness and pursue other opportunities beyond football, serving as role models for younger athletes.

Guest of honour B.H. Alexander highlighted that the Poumai Veteran Sports Association was established in 2024 by a group of like-minded individuals and intellectuals with the aim of helping veterans stay fit and healthy. He expressed hope that such tournaments would continue, not only to promote physical wellness but also to instill discipline, punctuality, and showcase the talents of the older generation to the youth.

The closely contested final ended in a 2-2 draw during regulation time, pushing the match into a penalty shootout. Khyouchi VFC held their nerve and edged past Range Rover VFC with a 4-3 win in the shootout. The winning team took home a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, while the runners-up received Rs. 60,000.

Several individual awards were also presented at the closing ceremony. Phyaziikho of Khyouchi VFC was declared Man of the Match, Siilounii of Khyouchi VFC bagged the Golden Boot, Victor of Khyouchi VFC was named Best Defender, Tao of Dziino VFC received the Golden Glove, and H. Robert of Range Rover VFC was recognized as the Best Midfielder.