Kohima, 18 September (MTNews): Prolific striker Rhitsho Mero scored five goals as defending champions New Market FC thrashed 14 FC 9-0 in the inaugural match of the ongoing 23rd NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy.
New Market FC scored nine goals without response at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in the opening match to kick off their campaign in style. 14 FC, an Assam Rifle regiment team, had no reply to the defending champions.
Petevizo, Bapen, Awang, and Chingyo M added a goal each for New Market FC.
The prestigious state football tournament NSF Trophy is being organized under the theme “Goal For Peace” and hosted by the Angami Students’ Union. During the inaugural ceremony, S Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland, graced the program as the inaugural guest.
In his speech, the advisor encouraged youths to give more attention to games and sports, adding that the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Rio is developing sports infrastructure all over Nagaland.
The 23rd edition has a total of 34 teams, including two teams from Manipur, and the total tournament prize money is Rs. 7,00,000/-.
The tournament is being held in honor of two comrades, late Kekuojalie Sachü of Kohima village and late Vikhozo Yhoshii of Kigwema village, who were victims of indiscriminate firing by the armed police from Alichen when the students fraternity were on a peaceful duty call on March 22, 1986, to protest the extension of disturbed area belt from 5Km to 20Km along the Indo Myanmar border and against the induction of Indian Police Service (IPS) cadres into the state of Nagaland.
This event serves as a solemn remembrance of their supreme sacrifices, and the Angami Students’ Union has faithfully organized the trophy annually in their honor, making this year the 23rd edition. (With inputs from SportsLIVE Nagaland)