Dimapur, Oct. 18 (EMN): Youth Association Marepkong’s strong midfield and an equally strong defense line today triumphed over a rejuvenated Mongsenbai Youngsters at the first semi-final match of the ongoing MDFA Trohpy 2017 at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Wednesday.
Youth Association Merepkong from Pool – A has been one of the most consistent teams of the tournament, while Mongsenbai Youngsters, who were considered as an underdog of the tournament, came thus far to enter the semi-finals.
Earlier in the match, Mongsenbai Youngsters dominated the match and made some serious attempts. Their efforst were paid off as Khriethozo scored the first goal for the Mongsenbai Youngsters at the opening minutes of the match. However, the counterattack was vicious and calculated, and sure enough, the strong midfield and Jersey No 10 of YA Merepkong rose to the occasion as they scored the first goal at the 37th minute. The first half ended 1-1.
The second half started, and within minutes whilst the Mongsenbai Youngsters were (most probably thinning about their game play) jersey no 10, Keyiceleung again breached the defense lines and scored the second goal for Marepkong.
A spectacular third goal for YA Marepkong came through Keyiceleug making him score a hat-trick in the 57th miniute.
Mongsenbai Youngsters counterattacked, but the strong defense line of the Marepkong, which played 4-4-2 formation, could not be breached. With the whistle going off in the 97th minute, YA Marepkong rejoiced as the club entered the MDFA Trophy final for the first time in their club history.
Thursday’s match
2nd semi-final - Rongpang Reju Arkong vs Zonipang SA