10-men Barak FC hold on for a 1-0 win against New Market
Kohima, Nov. 20 (EMN): Barak FC, Peren lifted the 23rd Classic Cup for the 4th consecutive year after defeating New Market XI 1-0 in the final match played here at the Kohima local ground on Monday.
In a closely encountered match in front of a packed crowd, New Market XI started the match brightly and Yhunshalo Kemp headed goal was denied by the woodwork in the 3rd minute through Khwetelhi Thopi’s free-kick.
However, Barak FC took the lead in the 4th minute through Mayoshing Khongriwa as the rival defender deflected ball went pass the keeper into the back of the net to take the lead.
Minute later, New Market got another chance to level the score when Yhanshalo came one on one with the keeper but shot the ball straight to the Barak keeper Peisuidibe Zeliang.
Barak FC with the lead continued their dominance in the midfield area during the first half and New Market on counter attack failed to breach the defensive line.
The second half, New Market dominated the game with ball possession but was unable to find the target as rival defender defended the score-line.
A red-card in the 85th minute for Barak FC midfielder Seiboi Haokip gave chance for New Market to regain the momentum, but hard luck for the team as they failed to find the back of the net despite numerous attempts.
Barak side held on for a win at the end of the final whistle to clinch the trophy for the fourth consecutive year.
Defending champions Barak FC received a cash prize of INR. 1, 50, 000 along with the trophy and citations, while New Market walked home with INR. 80, 000 along with the trophy and citations.
A defeat for New Market means the title drought continues for 10 years as they failed to beat Barak FC in the final match of the Classic Cup.
Earlier, Rev. Fr. Neisalhou Carolus, Vicar General, Diocese of Kohima, the chief guest in his address lauded the initiative of the organisers for providing a platform to develop the young talent of the youths. He further encouraged the youngster to emulate the good example set by the Classic Club and to carry forward their good deeds and the mission that they have began.
Noting on the success of Nagas, he said success doesn’t last too long but our achievement doesn’t go to our heart but goes up to head and we failed to humble ourself, despite that Nagas are talented in so many field and area. He called on the gathering to be committed, hardworking, persistent, perseverance in the effort in order to achieve something in life.
The three-week long tournament was organised by Classic Club Kohima under the theme ‘Creating a better world through football’. 35 teams participated in the 23rd edition of the tournament.
Individual awards
Player of the people choice - Rhitso Mero of Barak FC
Best goalkeeper - Medophrezo Kezieo of Kohima Eagle’s SC
Best defence - Akiho Chisi of St Joseph’s College, Jakhama
Best midfielder - Keneisedelie Chiitso of Barak FC
Highest Scorer- Khwetelhi Thopi of New Market FC and Tamthing of St Joseph’s College (9 goals each)
Player of the Tournament - Yhunshalo Kemp of New Market FC
