Players of Sechu Zubza FC and 27 United FC fight for the ball during the match at IG Stadium, Kohima on February 15.
Sechu Zubza FC hammer 27 United; Barak FC and Longterok draw; NUSC win 2-0
KOHIMA/CHÜMOUKEDIMA, February 15 (MExN): In a thrilling encounter at Chümoukedima Football Stadium, Barak FC and Longterok FC played out an exciting 1-1 draw in what was one of the most intense matches of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) so far. The match saw both teams display high energy and relentless attacking play, with Barak FC controlling the majority of possession, while Longterok FC relied on solid defensive work and effective counterattacks.
Longterok FC took an early lead in the 3rd minute, thanks to a well-taken goal by Arap Konyak, who capitalized on a quick counterattack. Barak FC responded in the 33rd minute when Laiwang found the back of the net to level the score. Despite several more attacking opportunities for Barak FC and a missed penalty, the first half ended with both teams locked at 1-1.
In the second half, Barak FC continued to press forward in search of a winner, but Longterok FC defended resolutely, preventing any clear-cut chances. Barak FC’s defense also stood strong in the final minutes, ensuring that Longterok FC’s counterattacks did not find the back of the net. The Player of the Match award went to Laldinsang from Longterok FC. The midfielder was instrumental in controlling the tempo of the match, showcasing his skill in both attacking and defensive phases of play.
At Kohima, Sechu Zubza FC delivered an electrifying performance, demolishing 27 United FC 8-2 in a sensational contest at the IG Stadium. The match saw Sechu Zubza FC capitalize on defensive mistakes and swift counterattacks, with R. Mero stealing the spotlight by netting a hat-trick.
The scoring began early when Mero pounced on a defensive blunder to score in the 2nd minute, before adding another in the 17th minute with a well-executed finish. An own goal by Namsibo in the 29th minute extended Sechu Zubza FC’s lead to 3-0.
Despite a 27 United FC response with a stunning free-kick from Jangangkin Kuki in the 54th minute, Sechu Zubza FC’s counterattacks proved too much. Pursunep added a second goal in the 74th minute, followed by a header from Jangangkin Kuki in the 75th minute to make it 5-2.
The final 15 minutes saw Sechu Zubza FC continue their relentless assault with further goals from Sangti (77’), Pynbhalang (85’), and Mero, who completed his hat-trick in the 88th minute, finishing the match 8-2. R. Mero was named Player of the Match for his brilliant performance, leading his team with a clinical hat-trick.
Earlier in the day, Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) triumphed 2-0 over Red Scars Football Club (RSFC) in a match played at Chümoukedima Sports Stadium that saw RSFC dominate possession but fall short in breaking down a resilient NUSC defense. The match was decided early with a stunning goal by Y. Lohe in the 2nd minute, putting NUSC ahead. RSFC applied constant pressure throughout the match, creating several chances but were unable to find the back of the net due to NUSC’s well-organized defensive unit.
Despite being under pressure, NUSC took advantage of limited chances, doubling their lead in injury time when Bokato scored in the 90+2 minute, securing a vital 2-0 victory. NUSC’s goalkeeper, Ato Awomi, was named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance.
Next Fixtures
Barak FC vs Red Scars FC| Feb 19 |2 PM | Chümoukedima FS
Longterok FC vs Sechu Zubza FC | Feb 19 | 5 PM | Chümoukedima FS
