Namchi, 18th November 2023: Siniolchu FC of Namchi represented Sikkim in a triumphant semi-final match of the ongoing ‘OIL-DFA All India Level U-19 Inter Academy Invitational Football Tournament 2023-24’ held at Nehru Maidan Duliajan, Assam, from November 7 to November 20.

The team, guided by coaches Amos Nalboo Subba, Kumar Gurung, and team manager Binod Gupta, received an enthusiastic send-off on November 7 from the Namchi Football Association. Present at the flag-off were the President of NFA Basant Yonzon, Vice-President of Siniolchu FC Nima Sherpa, Senior Coach of SAI Namchi Suren Chettri, Manager of Siniolchu FC Sonam Karthak, and executive members of NFA.

Siniolchu FC’s journey began on November 11 with a victory against Duliajan Sports Academy, securing a 1-0 win with Binay Chettri scoring the lone goal, earning Sahil Limboo the ‘man of the match’ title.

In their second match against SSC Kerala, the team drew 1-1, with Sumit Poudyal contributing to the score.

In the semi-final clash against SAI Manipur, Siniolchu FC emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, thanks to goals from Ajay Tamang, Chopel Lhendup Bhutia, and Sahil Limboo. Chopel Lhendup Bhutia received the ‘man of the match’ award.

Looking ahead, Siniolchu FC is set to compete in the final on November 20 against Shillong Lajong FC, as confirmed by team manager Sonam Karthak in Namchi today.

Expressing pride in the team’s representation in the final, Sonam Karthak emphasized the hard work and dedication of team managers, coaches, and technical teams.

While acknowledging a slight concern about Shillong Lajong FC potentially fielding a more experienced team due to seniority in team management, Karthak remains optimistic about Siniolchu FC’s expectations to clinch the winner’s trophy.