Mon Vs Mokokchung (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tuensang | September 24
The race for the prestigious Dr T Ao Trophy 2024 has reached its final stages, with Niuland, Peren, Tuensang, and Mon advancing to the semi-finals after a day of thrilling quarterfinal action at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground, Tuensang.
In the first quarterfinal, Niuland displayed a dominant performance, defeating Zunheboto 3-1. Apeto opened the scoring for Niuland in the 11thminute and quickly doubled the lead through Thulungso’s strike in the 18thminute. Toka added a third in the 32ndminute, putting Niuland firmly in control. Although Zunheboto’s Guqhe pulled one back in the 34thminute, the outcome was never in doubt. Niuland sealed their place in the semi finals when Hunoto fired a shot into the net in the 64thminute, putting the match beyond reach.
Peren continued their impressive run, securing a 2-0 victory over Phek. A tight first half saw both teams locked in a battle for control, but Peren broke the deadlock early in the second half. Haileuyibe’s 46th-minute goal gave Peren the edge, and Khiuwangbo doubled the lead in the 57thminute, cementing Peren’s semi final spot with a composed finish.
Tuensang, who have been a fortress throughout the tournament, continued their flawless defensive form with a 1-0 victory over Noklak. A single goal from Ayen Mongba in the 2ndminute was all Tuensang needed, as their defense held firm to maintain a perfect record of not conceding a single goal in the tournament so far.
In the most dramatic clash of the day, Mon edged past Mokokchung in a nail-biting encounter. With both teams fighting tooth and nail, the match seemed destined for extra time. But in the 88thminute, Dangal scored a decisive goal for Mon, breaking Mokokchung’s hearts and securing Mon’s place in the semi-finals.
The stage is now set for the semi-finals, where Niuland will face Tuensang in a clash of attacking prowess versus defensive resilience, while Peren will take on Mon in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
