Nyenshen FC players in blue and DEF Tuensang in grey jerseys in a match on October 24 at the 32nd Loyem Memorial Trophy in Tuensang Town. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tuensang | October 24
Nyenshen FC continued their relentless march at the ongoing 32ndLoyem Memorial Trophy on October 24, securing their second consecutive win of the tournament with a commanding 2-0 triumph over DEF Tuensang FC at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground.
Facing a tough and determined DEF side, who had previously drawn their opening match against Northeast Youngsters Football School, Nyenshen FC looked poised for another strong performance after their 4-1 dismantling of Donsang FC in their opener.
From the outset, Nyenshen seized control, attacking fiercely in the first 10 minutes and testing DEF’s defense with a barrage of chances. DEF, known for their physicality and grit, responded with a few counterattacks that briefly unsettled the former champions, but Nyenshen’s composure at the back held firm.
The first half was a tactical battle, with both sides displaying sharp individual skills and team coordination. Despite Nyenshen’s dominance in possession, they couldn’t break the deadlock, as DEF’s defense managed to absorb the pressure, leaving the scoreline at 0-0 heading into halftime.
In the second half, Nyenshen’s tactical superiority began to shine through. The team’s midfield maestro, Dangmei, who had been denied a clear scoring chance in the first half, won a crucial penalty in the 52ndminute after being fouled in the box. Cool under pressure, Dangmei confidently converted from the spot, sending the Nyenshen faithful into a frenzy and giving his team the lead.
With momentum on their side, Nyenshen adjusted their formation to a 4-4-2, a move that proved decisive. In the 61stminute, Dangmei once again orchestrated the attack, beating two defenders with a silky dribble before delivering a pinpoint cross to Thanglalven, who unleashed a thunderous strike into the back of the net. The second goal was a testament to Nyenshen’s fluid play and Dangmei’s brilliance, earning him the moniker ‘sniper’ among his peers for his precise playmaking and lethal in the attack.
The atmosphere at the stadium grew tense as the match intensified, with DEF desperate to claw their way back into contention. However, Nyenshen’s defense, anchored by their calm and collected center-backs, kept the men in uniform at bay, securing a well-deserved victory. The win puts Nyenshen FC in a strong position as they prepare to face Northeast Youngsters Football School, a critical match for the latter who now face a must-win situation following a draw and a loss.
DEF Tuensang, on the other hand, will need to bounce back in their next game against Donsang FC to keep their hopes alive for a semifinal berth.
Northeast Youngsters Secure First Win of the Tournament
In the second match of the day, Northeast Youngsters from Churchandpur, Manipur, registered their first victory of the tournament with a 2-0 win over Donsang FC. Both teams came into the match hungry for three points, with Donsang having lost their opener and Northeast Youngsters drawing theirs.
Manipur’s outfit, led by the impressive Alex, found the breakthrough just before halftime in the 36thminute. Alex’s goal gave his side the much-needed confidence, and they doubled their lead shortly after the restart when captain Puia netted in the 37thminute. Donsang fought valiantly, creating several opportunities to get back into the match, but Northeast Youngsters’ defense held firm.
With the win, Northeast Youngsters keep their hopes of advancing alive, while Donsang’s campaign is all but over, having lost both of their matches.
Upcoming Fixtures: October 25
Son Kük Laang FC will take on Waza FC at 12 noon, followed by a clash between Upper Defence Chingmelen FC and Tiaren FC at 2:00 pm at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground.
