Tuensang beat Zunheboto, set up Dr. T. Ao Trophy final vs Mon

MOKOKCHUNG, OCT 27 (NPN): Tuensang secured their place in the final of the 25th Dr. T. Ao Inter-District Football Championship, Silver Jubilee edition, after defeating Zunheboto 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in the second semi-final on Tuesday.
Tuensang will now face defending champions Mon in the grand finale for the coveted title.
Tuensang made an early impact in the semi-final, with Sentisang finding the net in the eighth minute to give his side a 1-0 lead. Zunheboto fought back and restored parity through Ngukape in the 58th minute, making it 1-1.
Both teams pushed for a decisive goal, but neither could break the deadlock before the final whistle, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. Tuensang held their nerve from the spot, converting their opportunities to win 4-3 and book their place in the final.
Zunheboto’s Mangholen was shown a yellow card in the 49th minute, while Tuensang’s Relithong received a booking in the 59th minute.
The semi-final was preceded by a short programme attended by Advisor for Information and Public Relations, and Soil and Water Conservation, Daochir I. Imchen, as the guest of honour.
The programme was hosted by Nichet Jamir, while co-convenor of the organising committee, N. Bendang Jamir, delivered the welcome address. A special musical presentation titled “A Tribute” by Temsuwapang, Tajungmenla and Susan was also performed before the guest of honour addressed the gathering.
With Tuensang’s victory, the stage is set for the grand finale against defending champions Mon, as both teams vie for the Silver Jubilee edition title.