IMPHAL, Feb 18: Manipur eves defeated their Tamil Nadu counterparts by 2-0 in the second semi final of the ongoing 34th National games being held at Jharkhand. Mandakini opened the account for Manipur in the 55th minute of play. Rina Roy added another for the state in the 64th minute of play. It is note worthy that enroute to the finals, the state eves have remained unbeaten with scoring high against all opponents except for West Bengal. The state eves defeated Tripura by 24 goals in the first match for the state eves. In the second match the state eves defeated neighbour Assam by 10-0. However the high scoring Manipur girls were unable to score against the West Bengal side in their third match of the ongoing Natl games. On the other hand Orissa reached the final be defeating Tamil Nadu 3-1, Haryana 6-0. The finals will be played between Manipur and Orissa who defeated West Bengal by 6-0 in the first semi final of the games played today. The final match will be played between the two sides on February 19 kicking off at 2:15 pm
It is really unfortunate to know that in the ongoing National Games out of 138 medals for Wushu Manipur got only 27 medals although around 90% of the overall winners are Manipuris.It is because of this Manipur is struggling in the 3rd-4th rank,otherwise Manipur will be comfortably placed in the first position and there will be a huge gap between 1st and 2nd.Unfortunately for the Manipuris this has not happened.It is a matter of great concern,the state sports body should look carefully into this matter.
I failed to understand why Manipur did not field mens football team in the ongoing National Games.I am also worried about that fact that only 3 footballers of the state have won Footballer of the Year Awards inspite of being the cradle of Indian football.Its performance in the Santosh Trophy is also very pathetic.The best of the best footballers of the state irrespective of any clubs should play and win for the state.
A decline in womens football of Manipur.It is really disheartening to know that Manipur eves have to settle for silver for the 2nd time in the National Games,this time again to the same opponent-Orissa.What is happening to this team-the once invicible team in India for many years.Now,Orissa and Bengal have become its formidable rival.It is high time to regain its glory as the Queen of Football in India.Wake up and regain your glory-Manipur eves.