The much awaited Shirui Lily Cup 2021- National level football tournament was kicked off in Ukhrul on Wednesday by football promoter Somi Sareo with the declaration and inspection of the team.
Organised by Ukhrul District Sports Association (UDSA), altogether 10 clubs drawn from various north east India states, including Shillong Lajong FC, United Brothers FC, NACO, United Brothers FC, AIM, TRAU FC, New Market FC, Yarkhok United FC, KLASA FC, and PASI FC would be taking part in the ongoing Shirui Lily cup.
Speaking to the Imphal Free Press post match, manager Phungyar FC Amung Keishing whose team lost to United Brothers FC Ukhrul said that his players gave 100 per cent effort.
However, ours being young players, the other team who are more experienced on the pitch got the advantage in the match. “Although we lost to United Brothers FC by two goals, we have no regrets as we take today's loss as a stepping stone for the team to prepare better as we would bounce back stronger.”
The ongoing match is a direct knock- out game. PASSI FC will play against KLASA FC on Thursday.
Commenting on the team victory, the visibly elated winning team captain of United Brothers FC, Henser Sara told the IFP that after the Ukhrul League, the team could not come together for quite some time.
"We came together and participated in the Lily Cup only after a week before the game and started our training. We were joined by many young players and we are up against Shillong Lajong FC. We would ensure that we deliver the result through better preparations,” he said.
“We work on mental technicalities against the younger Phungyar FC, and plan to sail through by scoring two goals,” he added.
Khangatar scored the first goal in the first half while Thotngayun score the second goal in the second half for United Brothers FC.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of Shirui Lily Cup, Somi Sareo who attended as the inaugural chief guest said that he is not a player but a passionate football promoter and credited Aleng Shimrah for the same.
Fame Tangkhul singer Chonchon Varah and Shirui village youths entertained the spectators.
UDSA also felicitated various football personalities who are currently playing in various clubs across India. They are Wungngayam Muirang of Bengaluru FC, Hormipam Ruivah of Kerala Blaster, Chanso Horam of Mumbai City FC, and lady referee Shingnaisui Shanthing.
More than 2,000 plus spectators witnessed the inaugural match.
President UDSA and MLA of Ukhrul assembly constituency Alfred Kanngam Arthur; commandent 35 Assam Rifles Ukhrul colonel Manish, NHIDCL CAO John, TNL president Tuisem Kamkara, TKS president S Raising, TSL president Veronica, and various community leaders attended the opening ceremony sporting event.
