By Jinendra Maibam
IMPHAL January 15: The Assam Regimental Center (ARC) of Shillong has entered the finals of the ongoing 56th edition of All India Sir Churachand Singh KCSI, CBE Memorial Invitation football tournament 2012 popularly known as the CC Meet for short, after defeating Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU) of Kwakeithel in the 1st semifinal match at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium today evening.
With both teams playing the same formation of 4-4-2, TRAU was in attacking mode but missed three chances of converting into goals. The first attempt led by Th Premkumar heading to the post in the 14th minute of play was fended off by ARC defender Amarjit near the goal line. TRAU`s L Bikram made an attempt in the 42nd minute but was thwarted by Rakesh Singh of ARC. The third attempt was made by N Momocha in the 46th of play but ARC defender Amarjit cleared the ball from the goal line.
ARC of Shillong played with full confidence and started its attack on the TRAU goalpost. When TRAU midfielder G Anthony Kabui fouled against Bobbychand Singh of ARC near the right side of the D-box, the Centre referee Magho awarded a free kick in favour of ARC. ARC midfielder Gordon Lalwahchurra converted a winning goal in the 54 minute of the play.
TRAU tried to equalize but could not succeed and the match was sealed in ARC`s favor.
During the match today, Centre referee Magho awarded four yellow cards: ARC`s Amarjit in 20th minute and Bobbychand Singh in the 85th minute of play and TRAU`s Th Premkumar in the 31st minute and N Momocha in the 87th minute of play.
The E-pao Man of the Match cash award of Rs. 2000, a trophy and a T-shirt was given to Gordon Lalrahchurra, the winning goal scorer in the 1st semifinal match of Assam Regimental Center.
Tomorrow in the 2nd semifinal match, two local teams KSC of Lambulane and defending champion NEROCA of Sangakpham will head off against each other at 1.15pm at Khuman Lampak Main stadium.
