KOHIMA, OCTOBER 14: Favourites Nagaland Police (Red) once again lived up to the expectation of the Khuochiezie crowd with their convincing victory over Kuki United FC 3-0 in the round of 16 here at Kohima local ground.
Police midfielder Kekhrie Tsira led from the front as he scored two goals to anchor his team to the quarters of the 17th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy. Nagaland Police team will next play against Asufü Christian Institute in quarterfinal on October 17.
Kekhrie Tsira gave an early lead for the Police team in the 7th minute. Kuki United FC pushed for the equalizer, spurred by the crowd. The match was equally poised until Kekhrie doubled the lead in stoppage time of the first half.
In the second half, Nagaland Police player Limakumzuk inflicted another blow to Kuki United FC when he scored within the first minutes to take the scoreboard to 3-0. The police team will have reasons to worry as one of their key players Sakutemjen and another defender Bendangmeren were booked during the match.
In the first match, last year’s quarterfinalist Tiema-Khe, Kidima registered their entry to the last eight for the second consecutive year following their 3-0 victory over Tragopan Club, Viswema.
Tiema-Khe’s talismanic scorer Shürhosül Pucho was on target as he drew the first blood for his team in the 14th minute. Shürhosül Pucho, who scored six goals in the last edition and narrowly missed the ‘Golden Ball’, has already scored six goals and is in the hunt for the ‘Golden Ball Award’ even this year.
Zadutol Phinyo doubled the lead for Tiema-Khe in the 55th minute. The hope of Tragopan Club to fight back was dampened as Kevisekho Thokhwe scored the third goal for Tiema-Khe minutes before the final whistle.
Tiema-Khe will have a big task in the quarterfinal match as they will be playing against the defending champions Barak FC on October 18.
The organizers have informed that there will be an exhibition match between the officials of Angami Students’ Union and Naga Students’ Federation on Sunday at 3 pm.
Another exhibition match between Kohima Bar Association and senior leaders of Angami Students’ Union will be played on October 21 at 10 am Kohima local ground.
