SIVASAGAR, Feb 5 - Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar Memorial North East Football Tournament got under way at the ONGC playground here today.
Altogether eight teams � ONGC XI; Mising Autonomous Council, Dhemaji; Rynith Sports and Cultural Club, Meghalaya; Jorhat Town Club, Jorhat; ASEB Sports Club; Jampuijala Play Centre, Tripura; North Imphal Sporting Association, Imphal and Assam Police Blues are participating in the championship which was declared open by chief guest Sanjeev Kakran, executive director and asset manager, ONGC, Assam Asset.
Speaking on the occasion, Kakran said that since inception ONGC has always been committed to promote sports in the country, besides toiling for oil and gas to fuel the growth of the nation. Sharing his passion for football as one of the sports close to his heart, Kakran also said that this is a day for him to rejuvenate old memories. Sanjay Goel, chief general manager and head HR, ONGC, Assam Asset and president, organising committee welcomed all the participating teams and conveyed his best wishes.
In the inaugural match, ONGC XI defeated Mising Autonomous Council, Dhemaji 4-1. Dhurwesh Nijap, Sunil Lohar, Abhijit Taware and Arif Shaaik scored for ONGC while Sadar Panging of MAC reduced the margin.
The champion team will get Rs 1,50,000 while the runners-up team will walk away with Rs 1,00,000.