Son Kük Laang FC players in blue and Upper Defence Chingmelen FC in action at the ongoing 32nd Loyem Memorial Trophy at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground in Tuensang town (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tuensang | October 23
The 32nd Loyem Memorial Trophy saw a dominant display by defending champions Son Kük Laang FC, who overpowered Upper Defence Chingmelen FC with a resounding 5-0 victory on October 23 at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground.
The tournament, organized by Chang Wedoshi Setshang and the Chang Sports Association, is heating up as teams battle for semifinal berths.
Son Kük Laang FC, led by Head Coach Imlong Chaba and Captain Donge Hanglen—both key figures in Tuensang district’s recent triumph at the Dr. T Ao Inter-District Football Championship—set the tone for their campaign with a commanding performance. Although the first half was relatively quiet, with only a single goal from Shano in the 16thminute, the defending championscontrolled possession and dictated the tempo throughout the match.
In the second half, Son Kuk Laang FC’s firepower truly came to life. Namang doubled the lead in the 48thminute, and just two minutes later, substitute Kikrukhrielie slotted home to make it 3-0. Shano added his second goal of the day in the 51stminute, and he capped off the victory with a final strike in the 70thminute, completing the rout.
The comprehensive win ensures that Son Kük Laang FC qualifies for the semifinals with one group match remaining against Waza FC. The upcoming fixture will determine whether the defending champions finish as group winners.
In the second match of the day, Tiaren FC kept their semifinal hopes alive with a 4-1 victory over Waza FC. Desperate for a win after losing their opening game to the defending champions, Tiaren started strong, with Ganchui finding the back of the net in the 9thminute. Waza FC showed resilience, holding off multiple attacks and eventually equalizing in the 39th minute through a penalty from Thangsoi.
However, Tiaren regained control in the second half, with Apeto scoring in the 50thminute to give his team the lead. Captain Kakhevi then sealed the match, scoring a header in the 61stminute and a stunning long-range strike in the 70thminute that left the Waza goalkeeper helpless. The 4-1 win gives Tiaren FC renewed hope as they prepare to face Upper Defence Chingmelen FC in their final group match.
As the tournament progresses, the action continues on Thursday, with Nyenshen FC set to face DEF Tuensang at noon, followed by Donsang FC taking on Northeast Youngster Football School at 2:00 p.m. Both matches will take place at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground.
With Son Kük Laang FC’s continued dominance and Tiaren FC’s resurgence, the Loyem Memorial Trophy promises more thrilling encounters in the days to come.
