Kohima, June 27 (EMN): Nagaland under-17 girls managed a 1-1 draw in their last league match against Punjab at the ongoing Hero Junior U-17 Women Football championship to end their campaign in the tournament.
The Nagaland team came from behind to snatch a draw against Punjab at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium Practice Ground, Guwahati on Sunday. In a must win match for both teams, Punjab got into the scoresheet through Palak scored in the 39th minute, while the second half saw Nagaland getting the equaliser in the 49th minute through Nirmala Rai.
However, both teams failed to find the winning goal and shared a point each, ending their saga in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Kerala thrashed Ladakh by 8-1 to top Group E and progress to the quarter final round of the tournament.
A remarkable journey for the young girls who played their first national tournament, Coach Ropfu Meyase, talking about his experience as a coach for the tournament said that it was a great exposure for the kids but suggested the need to encourage more girls to play more football in future so that better results can be expected.
In the tournament, Nagaland won a match against Ladakh by 2-1 goals, lost against Kerala by 0-7 and drew in the last match against Punjab 1-1.
The team comprises Chimmushe, Abeno, Nirmala, Hupolu, Dietho, Ahenu, Diezechunuo, Kevisenuo; Nyumei, Visanolie, Sanjeli, Thaibeli, Hamshai, Barsaindi, Joshmaidi, Lolenu, Kevineinuo and Vila.