Our Correspondent Kohima | November 23 Head Hunters today knocked out Elite Football Club to book a semi-final berth in the ongoing 22nd Classic Cup 2016 here at the Kohima Local Ground. In a closely contested second quarter final match, Head Hunters came from behind to beat Elite FC by 2-1. Elite FC making an excellent move took the lead in the 7th minute. Alaomei Panmei receiving a cross from the right flank had no problem in tapping the ball home. Elite could have doubled the lead in the 21st minute but for Head Hunter’s custodian L. Alemse Sangtam who made an excellent save off forward Zabu’s attempt on goal. Head Hunter went all out to get the equaliser. In the 24th minute, Henping struck the post from outside the 18-yard box. However, Head Hunter equalised a minute before the first 40 minute-half. Midfielder Chumbenthung Kikon’s volley off Y. Khekiho Chisho pass completely left Elite goal-keeper Nungsang Yanger grounded. After the lemon break, both teams went on the offensive trying to score the winner. It also meant overzealous players committing several unwanted fouls. Two Elite players - Moa Sunep and Soihampou were yellow carded in the 41st and 52nd minutes respectively. Later in the 57th minute, Moa Sunep was sent off after being penalised for a second bookable offence. In the 53rd minute, Elite FC came close to restoring the lead but Head Hunter custodian Alemse excellently pushed Nampibo’s powerful long range attempt for a corner. Head Hunters took full advantage of being a man up and managed to score the winner in the 63rd minute. Substitutes Ihoto Zhimomi and Tia Yanger combining nicely to get past Elite defenders before Tia Yanger’s powerful shot pierced into the nets past the diving goalkeeper. Elite FC did not lose heart and pressed on for an equalizer. And despite being a man down, their indomitable spirit nearly paid off as custodian Alemse failed to clear a long range cross from Soihampou. However, in the subsequent melee, Nampibo’s shot on goal was blocked by Khekiho Chisho. Two Head Hunter players - Chumbenthung Kikon and Chubatemjen Imsong – were then booked in the 64th and 66th minutes for unsporting behaviour. Head Hunters will take on Barak FC in the first semifinal on November 26. November 24 (3rd quarterfinal) Naga FC vs M T Youth Club FC @ 2:00 pm
