IMPHAL, Jan 22: O Pitler struck the all important goal as AIM, Khabam retained the Loktak Trophy football tournament title with a 1-0 win over NEROCA, Sangakpham in the final of the tournament's fifth edition at Moirang Multipurpose Hr Sec School ground today.

Pitler found the mark for the decisive goal from a Herojit cross in the 37th minute that fetched the champions the top prize of Rs 50,000 and running trophy as well as bonus amount of Rs 1000 after being declared winner of Fair Play trophy.

Runners-up NEROCA were presented Rs 25,000.

The prize money was donated by tournament sponsors Loktak Power Station and the trophies by Loktak Brigade, whose Commander Brig Laove Verma graced the final match and closing ceremony as the chief guest.

Tournament sponsor's Deputy Manager (HRD) M Iboyaima Singh and 33 Assam Rifles Commandant Col Naresh Bhardwaj were also present as the president and guest of honour respectively.

Officers and personnel of 39 Bn BSF stationed at the tournament hosting School complex for election-related security assisted the organisers in the form of ground work and security measures.

This is the second title of the season  after they had lifted the Siroy Lily Cup.