Our Correspondent Jotsoma | November 18 Adroit Boys, Sechü Zubza lifted the 4th Zasinihu Memorial Trophy after defeating Phoenix FC, Jotsoma 2-1 at the final played today at the Jotsoma village ground. The match was decided in extra time after the score was deadlocked 1-1 at the end of regulation time. Adroit Boys skipper Zeaneikho Miasalhou emerged the hero of the match scoring the decider. Earlier in the first half, Rüütuolie Chücha drew first blood for Adroit Boys heading home the first goal from a corner kick. Phoenix equalised just before the interval with centre-forward Nouneneilie Medoze displaying great dribbling skills to breach the defence line and finishing with a brilliant goal. Moving into the second half, both the teams pressed hard to go one up but were unsuccessful. Phoenix goalie Vingusa Sano displayed great reflexes frustrating the Adroit Boys on many occasions. The match seemed headed for a penalty shootout but Miasalhou converting a superb cross from left back Anguzo Zhünyü. Phoenix were left with very little time to engineer a comeback. On the road to the final, Adroit Boys overcame Jotsoma Students’ Union 2-1 in the semis, while Phoenix FC trounced Khonoma Students’ Union 4-2 in the other semi-finals. The champions pocketed Rs. 35,000, sponsored by the family of late Zasinihu, while the runners-up received a cash award of Rs. 25,000 sponsored by Keneingunuo Vielie. The two losing semifinalists JSU and KSU pocketed Rs. 8000 each sponsored by Keviphotsü Khwükha and Visanyüzo Kuotsu. The prizes for the individual awards were sponsored by Neivikuolie Khatsü. The closing function was graced by Lhouviphrelie Rino, president, Western Angami Public Organisation as the guest of honour. In his address, Rino emphasised on commitment and sincerity on the part of sportsperson, while upholding the spirit of gamesmanship. 18 teams from all the villages under Western Angami region took part in the four-day soccer tournament which commenced on November 15.
- Player of the tournament -- Kevisalie Sechü (Adroit Boys)
- Highest Scorer (7 goals) -- Zeaneikho Miasalhou (Adroit Boys)
- Best Midfielder -- Kolierie Kuotsu (Khonoma Students’ Union)
- Best Striker -- Nouneneilie Medoze (Phoenix FC)
- Best Defender -- Menguneizo Peseyie (Jotsoma Students’ Union)
- Best Goalkeeper -- Vingusa Sano (Phoenix FC)