MENDHAR: Kishtwar Strikers and Nowshera Knight Riders won the opening matches of the Inter District Pir Panjal Football league being organised by Indian Army at Op Hill Stadium, here on Thursday.
In the first match of the day, Kishtwar Strikers outplayed Rajouri Royals in a penalty shootout as the match ended in draw in scheduled time. In another match, Nowshera Knight Riders trounced Reasi Rustoms.
The tournament in which seven teams from six districts to include Poonch Panthers, Rajouri Royals, Reasi Rustoms, Naushera Knight Riders, Doda Daredevils, Kishtwar Strikers and Ramban Warriors is scheduled on league-cum-knockout format, Defence Spokesperson Lt Col Manish Mehta said.
The event provides opportunity to players to exhibit their talent to help them get recognized for selection at the highest levels, he said adding that it will help the youth to interact with each other and foster a spirit of sportsmanship.