Shillong, Jan 16: Nongkseh defeated former I-League side NEROCA of Manipur 4–0 to secure a place in the semifinals of the 11th All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup International Football Tournament at Jorethang, Sikkim, today.
Nongkseh were without regular captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri, who was ruled out after requiring stitches following a lip injury in the previous match. Despite the setback, the team displayed a disciplined and intensive performance from the opening whistle.
The breakthrough came early when Banpynkhrawnam Nongkhlaw found the back of the net with a beautiful goal from a corner kick. Nongkseh continued to dictate play and their dominance was rewarded just before half time as stand-in captain Fullmoon Mukhim delivered a perfectly judged lob to Kynsaibor Lhuid, who converted clinically to give his side a 2–0 lead at the interval.
Maintaining control in the second half, the third goal came after an error from the NEROCA goalkeeper, whose loose ball fell kindly to Batskhem Thangkhiew. The midfielder made no mistake, calmly placing the ball into the net with precision.
The victory was sealed with their fourth goal when Sheen Stevenson Sohktung put his name on the scoresheet after meeting a brilliant cross from substitute Chanmitre Thma. Introduced in the second half in place of Shano Tariang, Chanmitre made an instant impact with his creativity down the flank. Sheen’s impressive all-round performance later earned him the Player of the Match award (pictured).
Defensively, Nongkseh remained solid throughout the contest, with goalkeeper Daraphun Talang making crucial saves when required. He was well supported by a resolute backline comprising Arlangky Nongsiej, Banpynkhrawnam, Banshkem Mawlong and Mickyson Tangsong, ensuring a well-earned clean sheet now in two games.
Following the quarterfinal victory, Nongkseh will face local side Red Panda FC in the semifinals on 18th January at 2PM.
(Photo contributed)
