NSF MARTYRS’ MEMORIAL TROPHY
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Players of Esü United FC, Manipur (White) and Butchers Union FC (Red) in action during their match at Kohima local ground on October 5.[/caption]
Our Correspondent
Kohima, Oct. 5 (EMN): Esü United FC from Manipur came from behind to beat Butchers Union FC 2-1 to make it through to the pre-quarters of the 18th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy at Kohima local ground.
A Kapani was the star of the match as he scored both the goals to steer his team to victory, thereby, becoming the first from among the four Manipur teams to qualify for the round of last 16
The fate of two Manipur teams will be decided tomorrow when Khyouchi FC takes on Kirha Youth Society, Viswema in the first match, to be followed with the match between Tangkhul Students’ Union and Renegades FC. The match of Lamphel FC, another team from Manipur, is scheduled on Oct. 7.
Butchers Union opened its account very early in the game through Mhasibeituo inside the first 10 minutes; however, Kapani ended the frustration of Esü United by scoring a late first-half equalizer. The last minute goal before the interval ignited the spirit of the visiting team who were left desperate for failing to capitalize some opportunities that came their way earlier.
Moving into the second half, Esü United got the better of their opponents in ball possession. Much to the jubilation of the visiting team, Kapani gave them the winning goal in the 59th minute and sealed the match to their favour.
Earlier in the first match, KVNS routed Speartex FC via tie-breaker and advanced to the round of last 16. The match headed for tie-breaker as both the teams were tied in a 2-2 draw till the end of the stipulated 70 minutes.
KVNS took the lead when Kedoneizo Zhale got passed the keeper in the 15th minute, but Kekhrieseto Khro ensured the hope of his team when he scored the equalizer to end the first half 1-1.
KVNS again took the lead for the second time when Kedokhoto Nagi found the back of the net, yet Shamba Samson came to the rescue of Speartex when he delivered the much needed equalizer just four minutes away from the final whistle.
Though they could find a late equalizer, the celebration of Speartex FC was short lived as they went down by 4-3 in the tie-breaker.
The month-long NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy, which will conclude on October 21, is being organised by the Angami Students’ Union under the aegis of the Naga Students’ Federation in memory of two student martyrs Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü.
Friday’s matches
Khyouchi FC Manipur Vs Kirha Youth Society, Viswema @ 11 AM
Tangkhul Students’ Union Vs Renegades FC @ 12:30 PM
Billy Graham FC Vs Kings FC, Chüziema @ 2 PM
