Thrilling battles and dominant performances mark Day 5 of the 20th TTSLFT

Itanagar, Mar 20: The 20th Tadar Tang State Level Football Tournament (SLFT) continued to deliver gripping matches and outstanding performances across all four zones. With the competition reaching its decisive stages, teams are pushing their limits to secure qualification for the Final Round.

In Zone 1 at Namsai, the day began with Namsai defeating Dibang Valley convincingly with a 4-1 scoreline. Namsai’s victory was powered by goals from Jhon Guria in the 9th minute, a brace by Shiladhamra Singkai in the 75th and 83rd minutes, and a late strike by Rahul Saikia in the 90+3 minute. Dibang Valley’s only response came from Ashoka Tacho’s 85th-minute effort.

The second match witnessed Changlang’s commanding 5-0 triumph over Lower Dibang Valley. Almost Taiboi opened the scoring in the 20th minute, followed by a magnificent four-goal spree from Rahul Singpho, who found the net in the 45+2, 70th, 85th, and 90+9 minutes.

The final match of the zone saw Lohit securing a hard-fought 4-2 win over Tirap. Despite Tirap’s efforts through Palai Wangpan, who scored twice in the 13th and 76th minutes, Lohit’s firepower proved too strong. Gulinso Ngadong scored in the 45th and 90+3 minutes, with Baron Karap and Yash Chickro adding goals in the 51st and 76th minutes, respectively.

Zone 2, held at Nari, Lower Siang, witnessed Shi Yomi emerging victorious over Siang with a 2-0 win. Goals from Morli Geyi in the 53rd minute and Toni Ragyor in the 90+3 minute secured the crucial points for Shi Yomi. East Siang continued their dominant form, thrashing Leparada 4-0. Disem Mize scored twice in the 25th and 68th minutes, while two own goals from Dorik Lendo (11th minute) and Gami Ori (12th minute) added to Leparada’s misery.

In another thrilling match, West Siang overpowered Lower Siang with a 4-1 victory. Jumdo Padu’s brace in the 21st and 56th minutes, along with goals from Kenba Doji (64th minute) and Tumto Kamgo (85th minute), sealed the win. Lower Siang’s solitary goal came from Kardo Lomri in the 25th minute.

Over in Zone 3 at Daporijo, Upper Subansiri, the day began with Kamle earning a strong 3-1 win over Kurung Kumey. Kamle’s Thotreimung MP struck twice, scoring in the 8th and 90th minutes, while Kabak Butum added another in the 63rd minute. Kurung Kumey’s only response came from Talom Pinku in the 66th minute. The second match between Upper Subansiri and Keyi Panyor ended in a goalless draw, showcasing disciplined defense from both teams.

The final match of the day saw Kra Daadi overpower APPSCB with a dominant 3-0 win. Kra Daadi’s goals came from Khyoda Mark, who scored a brace in the 20th and 70th minutes, and Nguri Nikhil, who added another in the 79th minute.

As the Zonal round progresses, tomorrow’s fixtures promise even more intense football action.

In Zone 1 at Namsai, Tirap will take on Lower Dibang Valley in the morning, followed by Namsai clashing with Lohit and Anjaw facing Dibang Valley. Over at Nari, Lower Siang, Zone 2 matches will see East Siang battle West Siang, Leparada competing against Shi Yomi, and Upper Siang going up against Lower Siang.

The Zone 3 fixtures at Daporijo, Upper Subansiri, will have Upper Subansiri locking horns with APPSCB, Keyi Panyor battling Kurung Kumey, and Lower Subansiri facing Kra Daadi in a crucial contest. Meanwhile, Zone 4 at Tawang will feature Pakke Kessang taking on the Capital Complex, East Kameng battling Tawang, and Bichom facing off against West Kameng.