Khyouchi FC, Manipur; Tangkhul Students’ Union and Billy Graham FC enter pre-quarters
Kohima, Oct. 6 (EMN): Former champions Tangkhul Students’ Union advanced to the pre-quarters of the 18th NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy following their victory against Renegades FC 3-0 here at Kohima local ground.
The former champions eased into the round of last 16 with a convincing win against a struggling Renegades FC who could barely put up a fight during the 70-minutes play.
TSU lifted the NSF Trophy in the third edition in 2002, and they are back at Khuochiezie as one of the title contenders even this year. Renegades were left helpless against a team who dominated in all fronts throughout the match, thanks to the goalkeeper of Renegades who brilliantly saved couple of attempts. Centre forward of TSU Thomyo L. Shimray opened the account of the visiting team in the 17th minute and placed them in the driving seat before the interval.
Heading into the second half, TSU doubled the lead when Rinchanso Khongreiwo delivered a superb long range shot that got passed the keeper, while Themvoi Jaja placed TSU in a comfortable position when he netted the third goal in the 52nd minute.
Playing the third match of the day, Billy Graham FC also registered their entry into the pre-quarters with their victory against Kings FC, Chüziema 2-0.
Rahul Kamei scored a controversial goal to give Billy Graham the lead in the 26th minute, while Kornan scored for Billy Graham in the 58th minute to take home his team to victory.
Rahul Kamei and Alban Kamei were both cautioned with yellow cards during the match, for which Billy Graham will have a concern if their team progresses further in the tournament.
Earlier in the first match, Khyouchi FC, Manipur blanked Kirha Youth Society, Viswema 4-0 to enter the pre-quarters.
Khyouchi FC was placed in a comfortable position with 2-0 advantage before the interval through the goals of Sülounü and Reuben. The hope of Kirha Youth Society to stay in the game was all over when Zhaipu tripled the lead for the visiting team during the second half, while Sülounü went on to score his second goal of the match in the final minute of the stipulated time and ended the match 4-0.
Khyouchi FC, Manipur will next play against Billy Graham FC in the pre-quarterfinal on Oct. 12.
A Nigerian to play for Lamphel FC at NSF Martyrs' Trophy
A Nigerian nationality Francis Okechukwu is participating at the ongoing NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy representing Lamphel FC, Manipur.
He will be playing for Lamphel FC in their match against High School Taxi Drivers XI on October 7 during the second match at 12.30 PM.
26-year old Okechukwu, who plays as a centre forward/striker, presently plays for Peerless Sports Club, Kolkata.
He had also represented football clubs in India viz Southern Samity FC, Kolkata, Dynamo Club, I. Railway FC, United Sports Club, Kolkata, Tezpur United FC, Sunrise Athletic Club, Tuff Laxmi Prasad Sports Club, Goa, Hindustan Eagles, Chennai, Ramhlun North FC, Aizawl and Arrows FC, Chennai.
In his country, he had also played for OKWU United FC and Perfect United FC.
Nagabazar FC vs Biekrazou at 11 a.m
High School Taxi Drivers XI vs Lamphel FC, Manipur at 12.30 p.m
Khriekesa FC vs Chedema Vill Youth Org at 2 p.m