Doyang Strikers FC kicked off their tournament campaign with an emphatic performance against Thunderbolt FC – a side that had earlier defeated NU Lumami in their opening match.
Displaying their quality early on, Doyang Strikers dominated possession and set the tone of the game. Horam opened the scoring in the 8th minute, giving his team an early lead. Toka Achumi doubled the advantage in the 52nd minute, followed by Ganghui’s strike in the 58th minute. Horam rounded off the scoreline with his second goal in the 67th minute, sealing a convincing win.
Eshong delivered a standout performance in midfield, while the defensive line comprising Benrithung, Toka, Saronbemo, and Pangersunep provided solid cover for goalkeeper Sashi, ensuring a clean sheet.
Thunderbolt FC, captained by Shaomoi, fielded a young and relatively inexperienced side against the seasoned Doyang lineup. Despite this, they showed determination throughout the match. However, nerves often got the better of them, with several promising chances wasted due to hesitation or misplaced touches.
Doyang Strikers could have added more to their tally, but a lack of coordination between the forwards and midfield led to several missed opportunities. Reports indicate that more players are expected to join the squad in the coming days, which could further strengthen the team.
With this win, Doyang Strikers FC have positioned themselves as strong contenders for the title. Their next match against NU Lumami will decide their place in the quarterfinals.
Earlier in the day, two former champions Telongjem FC and Intermingle Club played out a goalless draw in a Pool B encounter.
After today’s goalless draw between the two former champions, Telongjem FC have secured their place in the quarterfinals from Pool B, while the fate of Intermingle Club will be decided when they face Super Seniors FC on October 18. A draw will be enough for Intermingle Club to advance to the quarterfinals, while Super Seniors FC, having earlier lost to Telongjem FC, must win to qualify.
Telongjem FC, with four points from two games, will qualify as group leaders if Super Seniors FC defeat Intermingle Club, who would then finish with three points from two games. However, if Intermingle Club win the match, they will also have four points from two games, and the group standings will be decided on goal difference.
TODAY’S FIXTURE
Sports Society Soyim Vs Team Gilgal – 12:00 Noon
Super Seniors FC Vs Intermingle Club – 01:30 PM
NU, Lumami Vs Doyang Strikers, Mokokchung – 03:00 PM