Vekhrüto ends Barak’s triple title hopes

KOHIMA, OCTOBER 20: A second-half goal from Vekhrüto helped Forerunners FC, 4th NAP, Thizama win over defending champions Barak FC and enter the finals of the 17th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy. By bringing Barak FC’s journey to an end today, he also ended the defending champions’ hope of lifting the cup for the third consecutive year.
When the match seemed to be heading for a tie-breaker, Vekhrüto scored the much-needed goal for Forerunners FC in the 71st minute, which was enough to take his team to the final. Forerunners FC will take on Nagaland Police (Red) in the final, scheduled for October 22 at 1 pm.Both teams had their share of scoring opportunities throughout the match, but failed to capitalise on the opportunities. The match could have gone either way, except for the goal from Vekhrüto, which proved to be the decisive goal.
Three police players including Medoneituo Suohu, Kechie, goal scorer Vekhrüto and one Barak FC player M Raja were cautioned during the match.
With the defeat, Barak FC will fight for the third place against Nagaland Police (Blue) on October 21 (Friday) at 1 pm. Dr Kevi Rio, joint mission director of RMSA graced the second semi-final as match patron.
ASU seniors win exhibition match
Earlier in the day, an exhibition football match was played between Kohima Bar Association and Angami Students’ Union Seniors, the ASU Seniors defeated KBA 5-2.
The exhibition match was graced by Roko Angami, former international player and president of Nagaland Football Coaches Association as the chief guest.

THIRD PLACE FIXTURE ON OCTOBER 21
Nagaland Police (Blue) Vs Barak FC @ 1 pm