Kuthur FC players in neon jersey Vs Paopong FC in white jersey in the last league match of the 29th LMT, Tuensang. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tuensang | November 16
In the ongoing 29th Loyem Memorial Trophy organized by Confederation of Chang Students’ Union (CCSU) at Parade Ground, Tuensang, Paopong FC defeated Kuthur FC in the last league match to go into the quarter-final.
Going into this match Kuthur FC had nothing to lose after being defeated 5-0 in their first outing and Paopong FC securing 3 points after winning 4-0 against La-Son FC, the stage was set for a thrilling encounter.
Kuthur FC looked to upset the outcome of the group standings early on in the first half when a confusion in Paopong defense led to a goal in the 16th minute through L. Mukam (11).
After this early breakthrough, Kuthur players were energized and kept the pressure on the players of Paopong and made their life on the field hard. The men in white tried their best to keep the ball and to create the final ball however Kuthur players coordinated well with each player making the opponwnts unable to maintain the momentum of the game.
Just few minutes before the half-time whistle, the match looked like it will tie when a player of Paopong ran through the right-wing side and took a brilliant shot but only to kiss the top bar. The match went into a break 1-0 in favor of Kuthur FC.
After the break, Kuthur FC started with the same energy as in the first half and created many chances but lacked the final cutting edge and the defenders of Paopong were sharper and made well-timed last-ditch tackles avoiding more damage to the score line.
the spirited display by a young Kuthur FC, facing a seasoned Paopong FC, had the spectators on the edge of their seats. The constant attack of the men in white was soon rewarded with a goal in the 42nd minute, a well-timed kick by Y Shangpong (10).
It seemed now that the goals will keep pouring as the senior team had found their rhythm scoring a minute later by Benjamin (8) but with the never dying spirit of the Kuthur FC, they kept pushing and a 45-yard attempt by M Müzhe (7) found the net in the 44th minute. 3 goals in in 3 minutes! It was pandemonium, both set of fans cheered for their teams louder than ever and the game was set for an exciting ending.
However, two quick goals in the 51st minute by Muthiu (23) and Y. Shangpong with his 2nd goal in the 60th minute sealed the game but the intensity and the stamina of the Kuthur FC players till the final whistle was received with applause around the ground.
Paopong FC and La-Son FC entered the quarter-final from this Group. Match officials were referee T. Chuba, 1st assistant P. Chillio, 2nd assistant N Chuba and 4th official.
First quarter-final on November 17
11:00 am Nyenshen FC
Vs Reli& Heli FC
12:30 pm Freezing FC
Vs La-Son FC
