United Brothers win Lt Col Robert Cup 2024
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 17 2024:
United Brothers FC, Ukhrul defeated Taphou FC, Senapati 6-5 via the penalty shootout to emerge champions of the 3rd edition of the Lt Col Robert Cup on Saturday.
The final match of the tournament organised by 16 Assam Rifles was played at Astro Turf Ground, Senapati district with Governor Anusuiya Uikey, Mao MLA Losii Dikho and IGAR (East) major general VK Nambiar among the 11,000-plus spectators.
During the match, United Brothers FC and Taphou FC displayed great skill and determination as score remained at 1-1 during normal period and 2-2 after extra time.
It was only in the penalty shootout, United Brothers FC emerged victorious with a score of 4-3, securing the championship title.
Governor Anusuiya Uikey handed over a cheque of Rs 3 lakh and winners' trophy to United Brothers FC as Taphou FC had to be contented with cheque of Rs 1.5 lakh and the runners' up trophy.
Hriivei Carlos Pao of Taphou FC was adjudged the Best Player, Chanso Horam of United Brothers FC named Best Scorer and Lalboi Haokip of Taphou FC honoured with the Best Goalkeeper title.
The Governor also felicitated P Chingpei, the wife of (late) Lt Col Robert TA, and their two daughters on the occasion.
Earlier before the start of the final match, major general VK Nambiar distributed cash prizes of Rs 10,000 each to all participating teams, Rs 20,000 each to quarterfinalists and, Rs 40,000 each to semi-finalists.
It may be mentioned that Lt Col Robert, a revered figure from Maram tribe, was born on January 24, 1981 at Maram Centre village, Senapati district.
He was the first person from the tribe to hold the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Indian Army.