FIFA World cuppers return home to rousing welcome

From Our Correspondent

THOUBAL | Oct 14

U-17 FIFA World Cup players of Manipur who attended the cup hosted by India, which began on October 6 at New Delhi arrived back at Imphal today.

When the players arrived at Imphal at 11 am by an Air India Flight, they were warmly received by their families and members of several clubs, organisation. They were garlanded by supporters and well-wishers.

However, the goal keeper of the Indian team, Dheeraj was not amongst them as he and his family would be coming from another flight.

After the players were received by the crowd, they were escorted back to their respected homes by the people.

Meantime when the Indian team captain, Amarjit Kiyam and Jeakson arrived at Thoubal Hoakha, they were warmly welcomed by the residents.

In a ceremony held at the community hall of Thoubal Hoakha, organised by well-wishers, Thoubal district, captain Amarjit and Jeakson expressed their disbelief at the unexpected hospitality, saying it was like a dream.    

They expressed that they will cherish the moment forever, and said they will not let the love and affection shown to them, go to waste. They also expressed unhappiness over the fact that there is not decent play ground in the State for the players.

The welcoming ceremony was attended by MLA, Wangkhem Assembly constituency, K. Meghachandra, president, District Football Association, Thoubal, L. Chandrakshwor, vice president, Shyamo, M. Mani and A. Kesho Kumar.