PAKYONG, (IPR): Raju Basnet, minister of Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, Law and Parliamentary Affairs departments, graced the finals of the 78th Independence Day Open Football Tournament 2024 at St. Xavier’s School Ground today.
The event also had the gracious presence of Laden Lhamu Bhutia, Zilla Adhakshya; Agawane Rohan Ramesh, DC Pakyong; Sangay Gyatso Bhutia, ADC Pakyong; Robin Pd Sewa, ADC (Dev); Dak Man Subba SDM Pakyong; Head of Offices, along with Zilla Panchayats, officials from various line departments, local gentry, and the general public.
The open football knockout tournament was organised by Pakyong Progressive Youths in collaboration with Pakyong Sporting Club.
The final match showcased an intense showdown between Sikkim Dragon and JVC Singtam. In the exhilarating match, Sikkim Dragon delivered a captivating performance, leading them to victory with a 5-1 score while claiming the championship trophy along with a cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh.
Similarly, JVC Singtam was awarded a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakh for securing the position of the runner-up team.
Joseph Fofanah from Sikkim Dragon was awarded the man of the match of the event for displaying his exceptional talent.
Likewise, Suraj Chettri from Sikkim Dragon was recognised and honoured with the title of "Player of the Tournament" for his exceptional performance during the tournament.
Earlier, the final match of the 3rd District under-14 inter-school football tournament was held, wherein St Xavier's School claimed victory against Aho Pul Kisan Secondary School with a score of 1-0 and secured the championship title for the team.
The day concluded with ceremonious prize distribution to the participants and the victorious teams, followed by felicitation to various departments of the Pakyong district and committee members for their contribution to making it a successful event.