Bordoloi Trophy: Delhi FC beat Nagaland 1-0 to clinch trophy

Dimapur, April 3 (EMN): Delhi Football Club defeated Nagaland Police by a solitary goal to lift the 68th edition of Bharat Ratna Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Trophy football tournament at Nehru Stadium, Guwahati on Sunday evening.

Despite a spirited play from Nagaland Police, a moment of magic from Japanese midfielder, Kosuke Yamazaki broke the deadlock for Delhi FC in the second half, which proved to be decisive in the final match.

Nagaland goalkeeper Neithovilie Chalieu produced some stunning saves in the first half to keep the match in a goalless draw in the first half.

In the 70th minute, Delhi FC midfielder, Yamazaki beat the keeper and fired home the winning goal with an attack from the right wing.

Delhi FC went down to 10 man in the last 10 minutes of the match giving an advantage to the Nagaland team, who produced some good football in the second half but were undone in their finishing as the opponent team held on the lead till the end of the final whistle.

With the defeat, Nagaland Police lost their second final in the Bordoloi Trophy. In 2009, they lost to Assam State Electricity Board Sports Club.

Chalieu was adjudged the best goalkeeper of the tournament, while Yamazaki of Delhi FC was awarded the player of the tournament.

Delhi FC walked away with a cash prize of INR two lakh along with trophy and citation, while Nagaland Police received INR one lakh.

The Nagaland Police team is led by coach Lhoulavolie, asst. coach Hainsiugongbe and R Dibambo as manager.  The players are Neithovilie Chalieu ,Nighatu T Sumi, Sanyem Konyak, Meribui, Paul, Menoneikho Nakhro, Khwetelhi Thopi, Rhitsho Mero, Veseto Chuzho, Lipok Sashi Jamir, Bendang Meren, Kezhose, Imli Akum, Seisanglen, Amun Nungsaham, Limakumzuk, Y Lemtong and Digungpeung.

Bordoloi Trophy is one of the oldest and most popular football championships in Northeast India. The trophy is an annual Indian football tournament organised by Guwahati Sports Association (GSA).