SSA players lift the U-16 Knockout Floodlight Football Tourney in Siliguri

ANUSHA GURUNG
GANGTOK, 05 Nov: Students of the State Sports Academy [SSA] have proved themselves once again by emerging as the champions of the U-16 Knockout Floodlight Football Tournament 2012 held at Kanchenjunga Stadium in Siliguri.
In the final match played last evening, SSA defeated Barasat, Kolkata 1-0 to lift the championship trophy of the tournament. In the final match, Pema Bhutia scored the winning goal for the SSA.
Apart from the champion’s trophy, SSA’s striker Tshering Zangpo Tamang received Man of the Match trophy and also the Man of the Tournament trophy. Tshering Zangpo was also awarded with the High Scorer trophy for his 6 goals in the tournament. Likewise, Nim Tenzing Lepcha of the SSA also received the Best Goalkeeper trophy of the tournament.
Earlier, SSA defeated Bangladesh 4-0 and George Telegraph, Kolkata 2-0 to reach the finals of the tournament. The 18-member SSA team was led by the coach, Amos Subba in the tournament. A total of 18 teams had taken part in the tournament. The SSA team returned home this afternoon.
Speaking to media persons today at Paljor Stadium, Sports Minister, NK Pradhan congratulated SSA players for their outstanding performance and for making the state and its people proud. He further added that this achievement is a matter of pride for the whole state.
“Many people have the impression that the department has not been doing much for sports in the state but such achievements prove the dedication and interest of the department in providing the facilities and showcasing the hidden talents of the state”, said the Minister.
He pointed out that many SSA students are playing for reputed clubs in different parts of the country and expressed hope that many players from this present batch would also get to play for reputed clubs in the coming days. The department has been putting its best efforts in providing the best facilities in the field of football as well as in other sports activities, Mr Pradhan added.
Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary, Karma P Bhutia also congratulated the whole team for this achievement where they have defeated some strong teams in the tournament. He further added that this was a good experience for players to boost them for their upcoming tournaments and other future challenges. The Secretary also congratulated the coach for his efforts.