Morung Express News
Tuensang | October 25
In a high-stakes series of matches, Son Kük Laang FC and Tiaren FC clinched their places in the tournament’s semifinals, emerging as the top teams in their group. Son Kük Laang led with a flawless 3-0 win over Waza FC, while Tiaren FC followed as group runners-up after delivering a resounding 5-0 victory against Upper Defence Chingmelen FC at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground in Tuensang town.
In the first match, Son Kük Laang FC and Waza FC faced off in a tense showdown that saw a scoreless first half, with both sides displaying formidable defense and tactical discipline. Son Kük Laang, however, returned to the field in the second half with renewed intensity. Longkoi broke the deadlock in the 45thminute, converting a well-executed play that left the Waza FC defense reeling. The goal shifted momentum entirely to Son Kük Laang, whose players capitalized on the advantage with unrelenting pressure. Just six minutes later, an own goal doubled the score in the 51stminute, while Semingthang’s strike in the 62ndminute cemented a 3-0 victory, ending Waza FC’s tournament run and affirming Son Kük Laang’s top position in the group.
The second match saw Tiaren FC take on Upper Defence Chingmelen FC in a display of dominant, high-energy football. Tiaren FC wasted no time, as Ganchui put them on the scoreboard with a clinical finish in the 16thminute, securing an early 1-0 lead.
Tiaren’s confidence grew as the game progressed, and an unfortunate own goal by Upper Defence in the 37thminute added to their woes, giving Tiaren a 2-0 cushion at halftime. The second half witnessed a relentless Tiaren attack, with Apeto scoring back-to-back goals in the 55thand 69thminutes. Captain Kakhevi rounded out the scoring spree in stoppage time, delivering a 5-0 triumph and an unmistakable statement of Tiaren’s semifinal intentions.
With these commanding victories, Son Kük Laang FC advances as group winners, with Tiaren FC joining as the second-place team. Both clubs will be formidable contenders as they prepare for the tournament’s semifinal stage.
Next in line, Nyenshen FC will take on Northeast Youngster Football School on October 26 at noon, followed by a clash between Donsang FC and DEF Tuensang at 2:00 pm, as the remaining teams battle for a coveted spot in the semifinals.
