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Players of Ziekezou SC (yellow) and United 16 FC with organisers and others before the inaugural match at the Kohima local ground on Tuesday. (EM Images)[/caption]
Kohima, July 16 (EMN): Substitute Vilhoubeituo Yhome scored two goals in the second half for defending champions Ziekezou Sporting Club to register an easy win over United 16 FC 4-1 in the first league match of the ongoing 2nd Kohima Football League (KFL) at the Kohima local ground on Tuesday.
In the match, Ziekezou Sporting Club came from behind to beat United 16 after Yhome’s brace helped the team to secure three important points.
United 16 FC took the lead through Menoneikho in the 12th minute but the goal was cut short in the 30th minute through Mhasisetuo for Ziekezou SC. Both team failed to create chances as the first half ended in a draw.
In the second half, the coach introduced a new striker Vilhoubeituo Yhome and he gave the lead for Ziekezou SC in the 55th minute and added his second goal in 67th minute. He did have his chance to score a hat-trick when he came one on one with the keeper but shot the ball wide off the target.
Neikethozo added the fourth goal in the 84th minute and in the dying minutes Ziekezou SS got a penalty for a handball, Yhome took the spot kick but shot the ball wide off the target again as the match ended 4-1 in favour of Ziekezou Sporting Club.
Earlier in the inaugural function, Neikiesalie Kire, advisor for Rural Development attended the occasion as the special invitee. In his speech, Kire lauded the initiative of the Kohima Football League and asserted that league is the only way to keep the player fit. He further encouraged the participating team to make the best use of the league.
Dr. Viketoulie Pienyu, president KTC in his presidential address said KFL is aim to produce professional footballers and national level players. “We hope that some of the player can find gainful employment through football.
“We want to bring a radical shift in the way we look at our players... and to redeem Nagaland football and help Nagaland to find a respectable place in Indian football,” said the president.
Viketoulie Pienyu, convernor KFL said KTC has taken the initiative by starting a professional league to promote the game as well as developed the standard of football.
The champions of the second edition will receive a cash prize of INR 1 lakh along with the trophy, while the runners up will be awarded INR 90,000. Organised by Kohima Town Club, the KFL-2 will continue till August 24.
Wednesday’s matches
Vanguard FC vs Twenty XI FC at 12 pm
Sechii Zubza FC vs Khriekesa FC at 2 pm
