NSF MMT: FIFA, Ura Uvie enter semis; Unity FC, Lajong FC in quarters

Our Correspondent

Kohima, Oct. 21 (EMN): Playing the first quarter-final match, FIFA FC defeated defending champions Headhunters FC 2-1 to sail into the semis of the ongoing 22nd NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy on Friday evening here at IG Stadium.

In a neck-to-neck encounter, Headhunters took an early lead through Pursunep in the 10^th minute.

However, FIFA staged a comeback after the breather to equalise the scoreline from the boots of Ronald Saikhom who converted a spot kick from the penalty mark in 52^nd minute.

A determined Saikhom made no mistake to net in his second and the winning goal for FIFA in the 70^th minute to claim the hard-fought victory against a formidable team.

The man of the match was awarded to Jayananda Moirangthem Singh of FIFA by Kuolie Mere, PRO, Nagaland House, New Delhi.

Ura Uvie FC blanked Vapfüma Gaziphema FC, Manipur, 4-0 in the second quarter-final match.

Shürhosel Zhotso and Kevisanyü Peseyie scored a brace each for Ura Uvie to secure a semifinal spot for Ura Uvie.

The man of the match was awarded to Hekato Aye of Ura Uvie by Dievi Yano, former president of Angami Students’ Union.

Earlier, Unity FC Meriema booked their quarter-final berth after overpowering Viswemi FC by a margin of 3-0.

After a goalless first half, Unity FC dominated the game in the second session with the first goal of the match coming through the boots of Kenei Viluo in the 55^th minute while the second and third goals were scored by Asekho and Asezo in the 57^th and 90^th minutes respectively.

The Man of the match was awarded to Kenei Viluo of Unity FC by Kevilebi Zashumo, technical director of 22nd NSF MMT and proprietor of Sports Paradise Kohima.

In the last pre-quarter final match, Shillong Lajong FC hammered Pochury Students’ Union 8-0.

Gladdy scored a brace while Chanmitre, Wadajied, Everbright Son, Samuel Vanlalpeka, Atlan Kharman and Henry contributed a goal each in style for Lajong FC.

Atlan Kharmaw was awarded the man of the match by Keneido Peseyie, a football enthusiast and assistant director of SIB, Nagaland.

Match fixture for Saturday

• 3^rd quarterfinal match – New Market FC vs Red Scars FC (4 pm)
• 4^th quarterfinal match – Unity FC, Meriema vs Shillong Lajong FC (6:30 pm)