Jotsoma, Nov. 18 (EMN): Adroit Boys, Sechü Zubza defeated Phoenix FC, Jotsoma 2-1 in a thrilling final encounter to emerge as the champions of the 4th edition of Zasinihu Memorial Trophy here at Jotsoma village ground on Nov. 18.
Playing an exciting final on a cloudy day, the match headed for extra time until Zeaneikho Miasalhou of Adroit Boys became the hero of the match when he scored the crucial deciding goal to take home his team to victory.
Earlier in the first half, Rüütuolie Chücha drew the first blood for Adroit Boys with a header from a corner kick. But just before the interval, Phoenix FC found the equaliser through their centre forward Nouneneilie Medoze, who delivered a brilliant kick after dribbling pass the opponent’s defence line.
Moving into the second half, both the teams pressed hard to tear the opponent’s defence but were unable to make any successful penetration. Going by the match, Adroit Boys had the upper hand with better ball possession, but they were restricted from making any successful penetration. The goal keeper of Phoenix FC Vingusa Sano performed exceptionally, and kept frustrating the Adroit Boys on many occasions.
When the match seemed to heading for tie-breaker, it was the centre forward of Adroit Boys and also their skipper Miasalhou who scored the much needed goal following a superb cross from the left back defender Anguzo Zhünyü.
Miasalhou’s goal proved crucial for Adroit Boys as their opponents Phoenix FC were left with very little time to come back into the game.
On the road to final, Adroit Boys overcame Jotsoma Students’ Union 2-1 in the semis earlier on the day, while Phoenix FC trounced Khonoma Students’ Union 4-2 in the other semifinals.
The champions walked home richer with INR 35,000, sponsored by the family of late Zasinihu, while the runners-up received a cash award of INR 25,000, sponsored by Keneingunuo Vielie.
The two losing semifinalists JSU and KSU were given INR 8,000 each, sponsored by Keviphotsü Khwükha and Visanyüzo Kuotsu. Meanwhile, the prizes for the individual awards were sponsored by Neivikuolie Khatsü.
The closing function was graced by Lhouviphrelie Rino, president, Western Angami Public Organisation as the guest of honour. In his address, Rino advised the sportspersons to partake in games and sports with total commitment and sincerity, while he also advised the players to be discipline and participate with the true spirit of sportsmanship.
A total of 18 teams from all the villages under Western Angami region took part in the four-day soccer tournament which commenced on Nov 15.
Individual awards
Player of the tournament - Kevisalie Sechü (Adroit Boys)
Highest Scorer (7 goals) - Zeaneikho Miasalhou (Adroit Boys)
Best Midfielder - Kolierie Kuotsu (Khonoma Students’ Union)
Best Striker - Nouneneilie Medoze (Phoenix FC)
Best Defender - Menguneizo Peseyie (Jotsoma Students’ Union)
- Vingusa Sano (Phoenix FC)
