Thahekhu FC beat Dimapur United SC to lift DDFL-cum-Late Hejeto Ayemi Football Trophy

DIMAPUR, OCT 5 (NPN): Thahekhu FC emerged as the champion of the Dimapur District Football League (DDFL)-cum-Late Hejeto Ayemi Football Trophy after defeating Dimapur United Sporting Club 2-1 in the final organised by Dimapur District Football Association, at DDSC Stadium, on Monday.
In the individual awards, Man of the Match was bagged by Katoho Chishi (Thahekhu FC), Golden Boot by Ebenthang (Dimapur United), Golden Glove by Anil Sangma (Dimapur United), Young Amazing Player: Senilo Rengma (Akito FC), Golden Ball by Katoho Chishi (Thahekhu FC) and Player of the Tournament by Katoho Chishi (Thahekhu FC)
Dimapur United started brightly and took the lead in the opening minutes, putting Thahekhu FC under early pressure. The side had opportunities to extend its advantage, including a golden chance from a long-range effort when the Thahekhu goalkeeper had charged forward, but the opportunity was not converted.
Dimapur United captain Nungsang (No. 8) came close to doubling the lead from a free-kick, but his well-struck effort was punched over the bar by the Thahekhu goalkeeper, resulting in a corner.
Thahekhu FC gradually found its rhythm and appeared to have restored the score line midway through the first half when a header found the net. However, the goal was ruled out for offside. Thahekhu continued to press and eventually found the equaliser close to the end of the first half with a well-taken effort, sending the teams into the break level.
After the restart, Dimapur United created another excellent opportunity to regain the lead when a forward found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper. However, the Thahekhu keeper made a crucial save, punching the effort away for a corner. Thahekhu FC then turned the pressure into a lead, whereby, Hobeka (No. 10) produced a superb finish from a tight angle to put Thahekhu ahead.
With the lead secured, Thahekhu FC created several opportunities to extend its advantage, however, Dimapur United’s goalkeeper and defenders stood firm, making crucial interventions to keep the ball out of the net, till the final whistle, with the score line 2:1.
The grand finale of the Dimapur District Football League was attended by Roko Angami, OSD of the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Treasurer of the Nagaland Football Association, and a former international footballer. Congratulating the Dimapur District Football Association (DDFA) under president Mughato Ayemi, he praised the revival of the league after a long gap and highlighted the importance of grassroots football in developing young talent and promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, hard work, and sportsmanship.
Roko emphasized that sports unite people beyond differences of wealth, caste, religion, or background, where dedication and discipline matter most. He also acknowledged the family of Late Apu Khezhito Ayemi for supporting the tournament and commemorating his legacy of community service, including providing educational opportunities to children in Khelhoi Village. He noted that the memorial trophy symbolizes the values and legacy of Late Ayemi. Additionally, he highlighted the Nagaland government’s sports initiatives, including futsal and artificial turf grounds, and support schemes for promising athletes.
DDFA general secretary and Dimapur Municipal Council Ward-9 councillor Lanutoshi Yaden described the finale as a celebration of football, young people, Dimapur and the legacy of Late Hejeto Ayemi. He said the league was intended to strengthen football culture in Dimapur, provide players with a platform and identify emerging talent. Yaden also urged supporters to display passion while maintaining respect for the players and the game. The programme was led by DDFA assistant general secretary Keyi Putlang. A special number was presented by Tonokali N. Zhimo, followed by a presentation by the DDFA. The vote of thanks was delivered by DDFA president Mughato Sumi.