From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, Aug 23: Football fever returned to Jowai on Saturday as the West Jaiñtia District Sports Association (WJDSA) officially kicked off its much-anticipated district-level football tournaments at the Kiang Nangbah Stadium, Dongmihsngi. This year’s edition features two prestigious competitions – the 8th Debo Shullai Memorial Trophy (2nd Division Football 2025) and the 5th Adelbert Memorial Trophy (3rd Division Football 2025).
The opening day provided plenty of action and early drama, setting the tone for what promises to be weeks of competitive football across the two divisions.
In the curtain-raiser of the 3rd Division, Loomiongkjam SC made a confident start by registering a 2-0 victory over Chyrmang Wah. Kamwamut Bamon opened the scoring as early as the 4th minute, giving Loomiongkjam an immediate boost. Embhahlang War then doubled the lead in the 35th minute, ensuring that his side secured all three points and a positive beginning to their campaign.
The day’s second fixture, also in the 3rd Division, saw West Madan Mustem edge past Mookaswan Dongneiñ with a narrow 2-1 win. Beloved Talang put West Madan ahead inside the first three minutes, setting off celebrations in the stands. However, Mookaswan struck back through Lastborn Phawa in the 36th minute, restoring parity. The contest remained finely balanced until Nineciful Shylla struck in the 60th minute, delivering the decisive blow for West Madan Mustem.
Action then shifted to the 2nd Division, where the match between Lumbhahdakha Wahiajer and Luti Tuber Social Welfare turned out to be a five-goal thriller. Lumbhahdakha Wahiajer emerged 3-2 winners in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Kamjuhhi Phawa was the star of the show, scoring twice in the 3rd and 64th minutes. Balajied Shylla added another for the winners in the 27th minute. Despite trailing, Luti Tuber fought hard and found the net through Daphi Dhar (41’) and Chalinstar Lyngdoh (53’), but their efforts ultimately fell short.
This year’s tournament has drawn wide participation, underlining the growing enthusiasm for grassroots football in the district. A total of 19 teams are competing in the Debo Shullai Memorial Trophy (2nd Division), while as many as 30 sides are battling it out for the Adelbert Memorial Trophy (3rd Division).
WJDSA officials expressed optimism that the tournaments would not only provide a platform for local footballers to showcase their talent but also strengthen the culture of competitive football in the region.