Our Correspondent
Kohima, Oct. 11 (EMN): FIFA FC and Infinite FC registered wins at the ongoing 22nd NSF Martyrs' Memorial Trophy organised on the theme, 'goal for peace' by Angami Students' Union (ASU) at IG Stadium on Tuesday in Kohima.
Playing the first match of the day, FIFA FC Kohima registered their first goal through Ronald Saikhom from a free-kick in the 12th minute while L Benjohnson Meitei doubled their tally in the 36th minute to take the lead.
After tussling against their opponents, Kulse Zhotso found his name in the scoresheet as he struck the ball into the net in the 43rd minute to give the first goal for Zhokhami.
The much contested first half ended 2-1 in favour of FIFA.
Continuing to make progress, FIFA netted their third goal through L Benjohnson Meitei in the 68th minute after the breather.
Striving to remain in the game, striker Kevizayie Khieya booted in the second goal for Zhokhami in the 74th minute during the counter attack against FIFA which consisted of local players as well as those from Manipur.
Lady luck failed to shine on Zhokhami boys while eyeing for an equaliser as they lost the match with a goal deficit to FIFA in the five-goal thriller.
Metei, who scored the brace for FIFA was awarded the player of the match.
Metevizo Sophie, general secretary of Southern Angami Youth Organisation, and former convenor of technical committee, NSF Martyrs' Memorial Trophy, handed over the award to Metei.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror post-match, Keneisel Tetso, the team manager of Zhokhami FC, expressed happiness that although they lost the match, the team performed well despite many of the boys playing their first tournament.
He was contented that the players could convert the chances which came their way during the match though they missed while trying to find the much needed equalizer. "It was an honourable defeat," Tetso said.
In the second match, Infinite FC beat Kohima Bible College by a solitary goal.
The all important goal came through the boots of Akhrietuo Miaria in the 35th minute of the match in favour of Infinite.
Akhrieto Mario from Infinite was awarded man of the match. The award was handed by Dievi Yano, former president of ASU
1st Match: Brothers FC vs SWAT FC (11:30 am) 2nd Match: Kohima Dynomos FC vs Ura Uvie FC (1:30 pm)