NSF Trophy: Bandits, Asufü, Head Hunters through to pre-quarters

Our Correspondent
Kohima, Oct. 20 (EMN): Bandits FC, Asufü CI Manipur and Head Hunters Jakhama went through to the pre-quarterfinals after defeating their opponents at the ongoing 21st NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, in Kohima on Wednesday.

Bandits came from behind and defeated Billy Graham FC by 2-1 in the tightly contested first match of the day. 

During the thrilling encounter, Billy Graham took the lead through Luke Seb who scored within 35 seconds from the kick off whistle. The goal was recorded as the fastest goal in the tournament so far.

However, the happiness of Billy Graham was short-lived as Thejaselie Therüja found the much needed equaliser for Bandits in the 10th minute while Khiti Kath headed home the winning goal in the 42nd minute.

The second match witnessed a similar game with Asufü overpowering Young United 18 Boys FC by the margin 2-1. 

Though United 18 took the lead through Kikrubeizo Keditsu who found the target in the 29th minute, Asufü was quick enough to regain possession as Adarhü Likhi equalised the scoreline making it 1-1 after three minutes.

Within the very next minute, A Kajükho slotted home the winning goal for Asufü to book the victory for their next stage.

Meanwhile, Head Hunters trounced United Falcon Medziphema 4-1 to make it to the pre-quarters.

Though United Falcon broke the deadlock and took the lead through Komezo Kuotsu in the 31st minute during the first half, Head Hunters scored four successive goals after the breather.

After the equaliser from Chingsha Jina in the 36th minute, Samson scored a brace while Chingkamlung netted the fourth goal to make it 4-1 in favour of Head Hunters at the end of the final whistle.