Dimapur eased into the knockout stage of the ongoing inter-district football championship with a convincing 3-0 win over Longleng at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on Wednesday.
Right from kick-off, Dimapur asserted control and dictated the pace of the game. Their dominance paid off in the 30th minute when Mangkholen calmly converted a penalty to give his side the lead.
Just before the half-time whistle, Rukuwe added a second goal in stoppage time, further tilting the balance in Dimapur’s favour. Longleng’s defence struggled to contain the quick exchanges and movement in the final third.
The match was effectively sealed early in the second half when Zarenthung finished a well-worked team move in the 48th minute to make it 3-0. With the result beyond doubt, Dimapur managed the remainder of the game with confidence and control, while Longleng failed to create any significant chances.
Cautions were issued to Francis Sangma of Dimapur and Ngansang of Longleng in an otherwise disciplined game.
With this result, Dimapur, along with Chümoukedima, have confirmed their spots in the knockout stage, having won their opening two matches in Group B. Noklak and Longleng, who have each suffered two defeats, are out of contention. They will meet in their final group match on August 8, which holds no bearing on qualification.
Dimapur will face Chümoukedima on the same day in what will be a Group B decider. A win for either side will secure top position, while a draw will favour Chümoukedima on goal difference.
