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Haotingmang, in green, of Head Hunters takes a shot during the quarter-final match against Fore Hunters Thizama at the Kohima local ground on Tue. Nov. 13. (EM Images)[/caption]
Our Correspondent
Kohima, Nov. 13 (EMN): Head Hunters captain Haotingmang struck twice as they overpowered Fore Runners Thizama FC during their quarter-final match of the ongoing 24th Classic Cup here at the Kohima local ground on Tue. Nov. 13.
Haotingmang’s brace, Nyithong Kemp stunner free kick and a cool composure goal from Rhitsho Mero helped the team to register a win over Fore Runner.
Fore Runner made a better start of the two sides and only quality goalkeeping from Mhiesinilhu prevented them from taking the early lead.
The shot-stopper denied Lima long range free kick as he carried away the ball out of the danger zone and he also denied Lipok Sashi long range kick to keep the team’s hope alive in the game.
Head Hunters eventually settled down into the contest and left winger Kekhiho set up the first goal for Rhitsho Mero to score in the 18th minute to hand Head Hunters the lead.
Thizama fought back and got their equaliser from counter attack through their striker R Vashum in the 25th minute. The nervy contest between the two dominated in the midfield area as the first half ended 1-1.
In the second half, Head Hunters took control of the game with their pace as Fore Runner defended the score. Haotingmang scored a spectacular goal in the 55th minute from set pieces following a poor clearance from the opponents’ defender.
Thizama’s goalkeeper Senti Meren was forced into action numerous time making some curtail saves but couldn’t help Thizama as they lacked quality in the second half. Nyithong Kemp scored a stunning free kick from 35 yards in 73rd minute to make it 3-1.
Before the final whistle, Rhitsho Mero was pulled down by the opponent defenders as the referee waved on for a spot kick. Captain Haotingmang took the penalty and coolly converted the shot into the net to seal off the victory in the 79th minute.
Rhitsho Mero became the highest scorer of the tournament with seven goals in three matches, followed by his teammate Chingsha Phom with six goals.
With the win, Head Hunters team will take on Deja Vu Edition in the semi-final match on Nov. 16.
Wednesday’s quarter-final match
Phezoucha YO vs Kuluopfu FC Pochury at 2pm