Defending champions Mon advance to the Dr. T Ao Trophy final after beating Peren 2-1 in Ungma.
UNGMA — Defending champions Mon defeated Peren 2-1 in the first semi-final of the Dr. T Ao Trophy (Inter-District Football Championship) silver jubilee edition at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex in Ungma on Monday, securing their place in the final.
Mon took the lead in the 30th minute through Eshong. The defending champions carried their 1-0 advantage into the second half, but Peren fought back, with Rangliakam finding the equaliser through a header in the 61st minute to bring the contest level.
With a place in the final at stake, the match remained closely contested until Eshong scored again in the 86th minute, completing his brace and restoring Mon's lead.
His late goal proved decisive as Mon held on to secure a 2-1 victory, keeping their hopes of retaining the title alive.
The match was preceded by a brief programme attended by Advisor for Science and Technology Küzholuzo Nienü as the guest of honour. A welcome address was delivered by Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung and co-convenor of the organising committee Ajit Kumar Verma.
The second semi-final fixture between Zunheboto and Tuensang is scheduled to take place at 5 pm on October 27, Tuesday.