Kohima, 23 September (MTNews): Manipur’s Asufü Football Academy secured their spot in the pre-quarterfinal round of the NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy 2023 with a hard-fought victory over Sechü FC at IG Stadium on Saturday, 23 September.
The first half of the match was nothing short of dramatic, ending in a nail-biting goalless draw between the two teams, despite Asufü FA hitting the crossbar on three occasions. Asufü came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 10th minute when Henja’s strike struck the crossbar.
The second half brought a turning point as Lamgumlal Kigpin found the back of the net in the 42nd minute, putting Asufü in the driver’s seat.
The game took a further twist when a late challenge led to Sechü’s defender, Mhaphruovito Rhatsu, receiving a red card in the 70th minute. P. Sorormi Thingsang sealed the victory for Asufü FA with a goal in the 84th minute. Lamgumlal Kigpen’s outstanding performance earned him the well-deserved title of Man of the Match, presented by Kevikhrietuo Dawhuo, a former ASU executive.
Looking ahead, Asufü FA is set to face Medziphema Royal FC in the last-16 round on September 30th, as they continue their journey in the tournament.
New Market FC dominates Ignite FC with a resounding 10-0 Victory
The defending champions, New Market FC, showcased their prowess once again by defeating Ignite FC with an impressive scoreline of 10-0 in the second match, securing their place in the last 16 round.
This one sided contest featured two remarkable hat-tricks, with Thejasetuo Gwire delivering a stellar performance with four goals at the 7th, 20th, 27th, and 45th-minute marks, while Neisede Peseyie displayed his scoring prowess with a treble at the 14th, 68th, and 69th minutes.
Despite the absence of their main striker, Rhitsho Mero, winger Thejasetuo Gwire rose to the occasion, contributing four crucial goals to the team’s victory. Additionally, the young striker Neisede Peseyie, making his debut for New Market, showcased his potential with a stunning hat-trick.
Petevizo Kezeo added two more goals for his team at the 36th and 46th minutes, and Khiuwangbo Kaurintah(8) also joined the scoring spree with a goal at the 6th minute.
Looking ahead, New Market FC is set to face Mima FC on September 28th in the pre-quarterfinal round, as they continue their quest for NSF Trophy glory.
Thejasetuo Gwire’s outstanding performance earned him the well-deserved title of Man of the Match, presented by Dievi Yano, former ASU President.
(With inputs from @Azhove Resu)