Williamnagar, Oct 19: Gabil Machong dominated the 3rd Edition of the Machong Football Tournament by winning both the Nok Me•chik (women’s) and Chra (men’s) titles in an exciting finale held at the Williamnagar Synthetic Football Turf.
The tournament, organised by Balsrigittim Sports Club in collaboration with the Simsanggre Citizens United Club, began on September 13, and concluded on Saturday with a grand closing ceremony attended by top dignitaries.
Local MLA and Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak graced the event as the Chief Guest, joined by Sengbath Marak, Deputy Chairman of the Regional Planning and Development Council, Tura; Stephen Rynjah, Superintendent of Police; Subir Sangma, DSP (Crime); Babira G. Momin, District Sports Officer; and other officials. Later, Bajengdoba MLA Pongseng R. Marak and State Planning Board Co-Chairman Nihim D. Shira also joined the programme.
The event began with a welcome address by organiser Sengsrang G. Momin, followed by the traditional felicitation of the Chief Guest with dikka (rice beer), cooked rice and meat (midap-samdap).
Speaking at the function, Sengbath R. Marak thanked the local MLA for sponsoring the event and praised the organisers for their hard work.
In his address, Minister Marcuise N. Marak urged the youth to aspire for higher levels of competition, stating, “Players from Garo Hills have great potential. I would be truly proud to see them represent our region at bigger platforms.”
Tournament Highlights
Nok Me•chik Final (Women):
Gabil Nok Me•chik defeated Mangsang Nok Me•chik 1–0, with Bemika Gabil scoring the winning goal despite Mangsang’s strong start.
Chra Final (Men):
Gabil Machong edged past Rangsa Machong in a closely fought contest. Sardish Gabil scored the decisive goal, securing a historic double for Gabil Machong.
