Ukhrul: Awungtang pull off incredible remondata to come from two goals down to win against Viewland.
Viewland, the favorites going into the final match started with their foot on the gas putting Awungtang under immense pressure from the off. Shangreihao Chiphang made some heroic saves to keep the Viewland attack at bay. Viewland, however, found their way through in the most unconventional manner ten minutes into the game. VC Thanshim, scoring from a free kick from the halfway line. Awungtang ended the first half with some good spells of possession and chances but Viewland held on to their slim 1-0 lead.
Viewland started the second half as they did in the first half creating a flurry of chances. However, for all their good chances, it was also from another set piece they scored their second goal. This time, Somaya’s throw in was inadvertently turned into his own net by the Awungtang goalkeeper who got injured in process. Undeterred, Awungtang rallied back and scored a wonderful goal in the 48th minute courtesy of Ramreinan Kaping who found the net from 30 yards out. Viewland pressed hard to restore their two goal cushion and had a goal ruled out for offside only for Awungtang to get back to level pegging with four minutes to go. Keeping up with the story of the game, it was another own goal as a careless clearance from one of the Viewland defenders ended up at the back of the net.
Both teams pressed on for the winner but with nothing to separate the two teams after full time, the game went on to penalties that Awungtang won 3-2 to script an incredible comeback victory and win the first ever Luira Veterans Cup.
Individual Honours
Best Goalkeeper : Shangreihao Chiphang (Awungtang)
Top Scorers : Ningshaipam Rumthao) Awungtang), HA Vareshang (Greenland) – Both tied at 4 goals each.
Player of the Tournament : Revd. Paul Vashum (Viewland)
Best Defender : Ramreinan Kaping (Awungtang)