Shillong: The three trophies of the 133rd IndianOil Durand Cup reached Shillong and were proudly displayed at a grand ceremony at the U Soso Tham Auditorium in Secretariat Hills on Thursday. CM Conrad Sangma was also present for the unveiling of the trophies in the city. As the city gears up to host the prestigious football tournament for the very first time, the CM hailed the efforts of the Durand Cup Organizing Committee in bringing about this historic moment for the State, which would put Shillong on the football map of the country.
The three trophies will tour the city and the surrounding districts, starting from the venue in the presence of the CM, Air Marshal SP Dharkar, Air Officer Commanding in Chief Eastern Air Command, Lieutenant General Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101Area, Maj Gen Rajesh A Moghe, VSM Vice Chairman Durand Cup Organising Committee and a number of senior military and civil officials. The three trophies were flagged off on July 10 for a nationwide tour by the President of India from the national capital.
Maj Gen Rajesh A Moghe welcomed and thanked the honourable Chief Minister, State Govt officials, military officers, the sponsors and organisers of the event and the media personnel. He wished the teams the best of luck on behalf of Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari GOC-in-C Eastern Command and Patron of the Durand Cup Organising Committee.
Conrad Sangma said, “Football is the most loved and followed sport in Meghalaya. And it is an absolute honour for us to host the prestigious Durand Cup for the first time. I urge all the football-loving people of the state to come and watch the matches. And I am sure that they will be entertained with some quality football games between some top sides. I will be rooting for our favourite Shillong Lajong. However, we look forward to competitive and exciting football matches in the coming days. And wish all visiting teams and guests a wonderful time in Shillong. I wish to place on record the excellent coordination between the Indian Army and State Govt machinery for administrative support and infrastructure creation.”
Shillong will host six league matches of the Group F of the tournament. This Group includes Shillong Lajong FC, FC Goa, Hyderabad FC and Tribhuvan Army Football Club. Here is the schedule of matches to be hosted in Shillong.
