Bordoloi Trophy: Limakumzuk stunner helps Nagaland enter final against Delhi FC

Dimapur, April1 (EMN): Nagaland Police captain Limakumzuk scored a stunning long range kick as they defeated India Club, Silchar 1-0 to enter the final of the ongoing 68th edition of Bharat Ratna Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Trophy football tournament on Friday. 

Nagaland Police will play against Delhi FC in the final match on April 3 for the coveted trophy, an update informed.

In the first semi-final match, Nagaland got into the driver’s seat as their captain Limakumzuk scored a stunner in the 5th minute to give the lead.  Despite a nervy goalkeeping for Niethovilie Chalieu, he managed to keep a clean sheet for two consecutive games.  In the second half, a defensive Nagaland Police held on the lead till the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Delhi FC blank United Chirang Duar FC by 4-0 in the second semi-final match. Naga local lad Laiwang Bohman Konyak playing for Delhi FC was also in the score sheet for Delhi FC during the match.

Nagaland captain Limakumzuk said that, “after 13 years we are going into the finals and I feel very honoured to be the team captain”.

He added the semi-final match was quite tough and challenging but his team’s hardwork and efforts finally paved the way for the team to be in the finals.

The captain observed that the final match will be a tricky match but believes that if his team plays with the same spirit and dedication, nothing can stop them from winning the trophy.

Delhi FC striker Laiwang Bohman Konyak expressed his excitement to play against his state team in the final showdown. “I just hope that we get to play a wonderful match and enjoy the beautiful game, and the rest is in God’s hand”, said Konyak.

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, ImliAkum, Seisanglen, Amun Nungsaham, Limakumzuk, Y Lemtong and Digungpeung.

The trophy is one of the oldest and most popular football championship in Northeastern India and an annual Indian football tournament, organised by Guwahati Sports Association (GSA). The winner will receive INR two lakh, while the runner-up will get richer by INR one lakh. 

The final match of the 68th Bordoloi Trophy will held at Nehru Stadium on April 3 (Saturday). The closing ceremony will be held from 1 pm and kick-off at 2:30 pm.