Matchday 5 of the Nagaland Super League on Saturday saw a mix of intense action and dominant performances as teams continued their quest for supremacy. Red Scars FC held Longterok FC to a hard-fought 1-1 draw in a game where defensive strength proved crucial. League leaders Barak FC faced a tough challenge from Frontier Warriors FC but managed to secure a narrow 3-2 win, while Nagaland United SC proved their attacking mettle with a commanding 4-0 win over 27 United FC.
Red Scars FC hold Longterok FC to a 1-1 draw
A tight contest between Red Scars and Longterok ended in a hard-fought 1-1 draw at the Chumoukedima Football Stadium. Despite Longterok’s dominance in possession and attacking play, they were unable to convert their chances effectively, allowing RSFC to hold their ground with a tenacious defensive performance.
The match saw both teams starting with high intensity, with Longterok pressing aggressively from the onset. However, Red Scars remained disciplined in their defensive shape and relied on counterattacks to create their own chances. Their patience was rewarded in the first-half stoppage time when Chongompipa found the back of the net in the 45+1 minute, giving RSFC a crucial lead heading into the break.
The second half saw Longterok FC intensify their attacks in search of an equalizer. Their persistence finally paid off in the 74th minute when Manton slotted home a well-worked goal, bringing the game level. Despite numerous late opportunities, Longterok FC failed to break through RSFC’s compact defense, ensuring the match ended in a stalemate.
Player of the Match Molutsupong delivered a stellar performance, anchoring RSFC’s defense with composure and crucial interceptions, thwarting Longterok’s attacks.
Next Fixtures
Red Scars FC: Nagaland United SC, 15 February at Chumoukedima Football Stadium
Longterok FC: Nagaland United SC, 12 February at Chumoukedima Football Stadium
Barak FC edge past Frontier Warriors FC in a thrilling 3-2 victory
League leaders Barak FC survived a tough challenge from bottom-placed Frontier Warriors FC to secure a narrow 3-2 win at IG Stadium, Kohima on Saturday. Despite their underdog status, FWFC put up a spirited fight, nearly causing an upset.
Barak FC started aggressively, pressing high and forcing an early defensive error from FWFC. Their dominance paid off in the 5th minute when captain Kevisanyu’s free-kick led to a rebound goal, converted by Toka Achumi.
FWFC, however, responded with determination and found the equalizer in the 31st minute through Dangmei, finishing off a well-constructed team move. Just before halftime, Kevisanyu restored Barak FC’s lead, making it 2-1 at the break.
FWFC made tactical substitutions and pressed forward with renewed intensity. Their efforts bore fruit in the 77th minute when Vishal capitalized on a well-timed assist from Vinoto to bring the score to 2-2. With momentum on their side, FWFC continued to push for a winner, but in the 87th minute, substitute Joy Sana struck a brilliant left-footed goal on the counterattack to put Barak FC ahead.
FWFC had a last-minute opportunity to equalize with a curling free kick in stoppage time, but the shot narrowly missed the target. Barak FC managed to hold on, maintaining their top spot in the league.
Kevisanyu was instrumental in controlling the midfield and scored a crucial goal for Barak FC, while Vishal’s equalizer gave FWFC a fighting chance. Joy Sana proved to be the difference-maker with his match-winning goal off the bench.
FWFC showed improvement in possession and attacking play but struggled defensively, while Barak FC’s high pressing and quick transitions created scoring opportunities, though their defense was shaky under pressure.
Despite the loss, FWFC’s performance highlighted their potential, while Barak FC will need to work on their defensive lapses as they push toward the title.
Next Fixtures:
Frontier Warriors FC: Sechu Zubza FC, 12 February, IG Stadium Kohima
Barak FC: 27 United FC, 12 February, IG Stadium Kohima
Nagaland United SC thrash 27th United FC 4-0
Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) delivered a dominant performance against 27 United Football Club, securing a commanding 4-0 victory at the Chumoukedima Football Stadium on Saturday. Star forward Nisede stole the show with a stunning hat-trick, while Wetsah added a late goal to cap off an emphatic win.
NUSC took control from the outset, dictating play with relentless attacking pressure. After a series of missed chances, they finally broke the deadlock in the 29th minute when Nisede clinically finished past the goalkeeper.
The second half saw NUSC further intensify their offensive efforts, with Nisede doubling the lead in the 65th minute before completing his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 70th minute. Wetsah put the result beyond doubt in the 88th minute with a well-placed strike.
27 United FC struggled to contain NUSC’s relentless attack, rarely troubling their opponent’s defense. Despite a few promising counterattacks, they failed to convert their limited opportunities and found themselves overwhelmed by NUSC’s high-intensity play.
Nisede was named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance, leading the attacking charge and finishing clinically. With this win, NUSC continue their strong league campaign, while 27 United FC will need to regroup ahead of their next fixture.
Next Fixtures:
Nagaland United SC: Longterok Football Club, 12 February at Chumoukedima Football Stadium
27 United FC: Barak FC, 12 February at IG Stadium Kohima
