Super Seniors (white and black jerseys) battling it out against MMSC (yellow and black jerseys) on the muddy pitch during the 3rd quarterfinal match of the ongoing MDFA Trophy 2024 at Imkongmeren Sports Complex on October 24.
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Morung Express News
Mokokchung | October 24
In an exhilarating quarterfinal of the MDFA Trophy 2024, Super Seniors FC triumphed over two-time champions Moanungsang Memorial Sporting Club (MMSC) in a tense penalty shootout after a goalless match at a cold and drizzly Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Thursday. The victory secured Super Seniors a spot in the semifinals.
The match, one of the most anticipated of the tournament, was marred by persistent drizzle, leaving the pitch muddy and waterlogged. Both teams struggled to adapt to the slushy conditions, with the ball often getting stuck in the mud, disrupting passes and making play difficult.
The first half saw both teams evenly matched, with several attempts on goal, but neither could break the deadlock. As the drizzle continued, the game turned into a physical battle, with the players fighting not only against each other but also against the weather.
In the second half, MMSC began to show signs of dominance, using their homegrown experience to better adapt to the difficult pitch. However, despite their increased pressure, they could not find a way past Super Seniors’ resilient defense. The game looked like it would head to extra time when, in injury time, Super Seniors’ Pursunep sent the crowd into a frenzy with what appeared to be the match-winner—only for the linesman to raise the offside flag, nullifying the goal.
With the game still goalless, it headed into a shortened extra time of 5 minutes each way. Both teams, visibly exhausted, made desperate attempts to score, but the deadlock remained, and the match went to penalties.
In the penalty shootout, Super Seniors FC took the edge. MMSC’s first shooter, Tinurepba, was denied by Super Seniors goalkeeper Nungsangyanger, who deflected the ball with his leg. Kevie Salie of Super Seniors calmly scored the first goal of the shootout. MMSC’s Imnawapang and Meyasenba both converted their penalties, while Chuba Imchen and Olando of Super Seniors found the back of the net. When MMSC’s Ayimnekshi’s shot was saved, the momentum shifted, and Nyithung of Super Seniors sealed the 4-2 win with the final penalty.
With the victory, Super Seniors FC advance to the semifinals, where they will face either defending champions Telongjem FC or Eastern Wing, who are set to clash on Friday.
October 25 Fixture
4th Quater Final match
Telongjem FC Vs Eastern Wing (1:00 PM)
