Mokokchung, October 8 (MExN): The second last round of league matches of the ongoing MDFA Trophy 2016 witnessed three spirited matches between six teams who were playing in do or die matches to make it to the pre-quarters (or last sixteen) for the knock out matches that will start from Tuesday, October 11. In the first match, played between Alempang Youth Association and Telongjem FC, the match ended 0-3 in favour of Telongjem FC. The match was evenly contested with the first half ending goalless. The second half also saw equal competition, however towards the end of the match, an unlikely Telongjem FC defender, Nighatu (Jersey No 4) found a breach in the Alempang defense lines; Nighatu dribbled the ball amidst the Alempang defense lines and to open the scoring in the 50th minute. A rejuvenated Telongjem FC then found two more goals through striker Ngul Goulal (Jersey No 10) in the 61st and 64th minute. In the second match, the Mongsenbai Youngsterz F/C edged Monanungsang Memorial S/C 2-1 in an exciting match. Moanungsang MSC came quite strong in the first half of the match. Though the first goal came in the 5th minute for Mongsenbai YFC through Yunaba (Jersey No 8), the Moanungsang MSC equalized the goal in the 21st minute through Jungshiwati (Jersey 15) through a header after receiving a cross from his teammate. In the second half, within minutes of the referee whistling the start, Sedevilie Kire (Jersey No 9) of Mongsenbai YSC breached the defense line and scored the second and final goal for the MYSC in the 36th minute. Moanungsang MSC tried their best to equalize but to no avail. The last match of the day was the most spirited of all as Stardom United FC played against Mongolian United FC for a berth in the pre-quarter knockout matches in the Group B Pool. Both the teams played evenly, with vigour and with dedication. The first half ended 1-1 in what was a do or die match. The tempo was upped in the second half as both teams tried their best to triumph. In the 36th minute, Mongolian United FC scored the second goal for the team through Bendangtoshi Jamir (also his second goal, his first coming in the 6th minute). However, the counter attack by Stardom was vigorous and their relentless efforts were rewarded in the 62nd minute when Lipokyanger scored the equalizer. The next few minutes played on, but when the final whistle was blown, the match ended 2-2. The last round of the league matches will be played on Monday, October 10. October 10, 2016 matches Time 11:30 am Arikodong Club vs Tongpang Ruju Club Hills XI FC vs Grasshoppers Socianian FC vs Telongjem FC
