Tuensang, Tseminyu and Niuland registered victories in their respective fixtures on Thursday during the ongoing 24th edition of the Dr. T. Ao Memorial Football Trophy, held at Indira Gandhi Stadium.
Tuensang blank Shamator 6-0
Tuensang delivered a commanding performance against Shamator in Match 18, registering a resounding 6-0 win. The result not only reaffirmed Tuensang’s dominance in the tournament but also highlighted the prolific form of their striker Ayenmongba, who currently leads the Golden Boot standings.
According to match officials, Tuensang broke the deadlock in the 11th minute through Dongehanglen, who outpaced the defence before slotting the ball home. The lead was doubled in the 21st minute by Bapen, whose finish reflected the team’s depth in attack.
The scoring momentum continued with Ayenmongba netting twice in quick succession in the 30th and 31st minutes. Namang added a fifth goal in the 42nd minute, and Ayenmongba completed his hat-trick in the 60th minute, taking his tournament tally to seven goals in just three matches.
The Tuensang forward’s consistency and clinical finishing were widely noted by coaches and fans, with many describing his performances as a new benchmark for strikers in the tournament.
Tseminyu defeat Meluri 3-1
Match 19 witnessed a historic moment as veteran forward Yhunshalo Kemp of Tseminyu played his final match at the district level, capping his farewell with a match-winning brace in their 3–1 victory over Meluri.
Meluri initially took the lead in the 27th minute through Yithachu, but Tseminyu restored parity in the 40th minute via Kemp, who led the team as captain. The forward struck again in the 52nd minute, giving his side a crucial advantage, before teammate Khiti Kath sealed the match with a third goal in the 58th minute.
Emotional farewell for Kemp
Before the match, Kemp was officially felicitated by the vice president of the Football Association Tseminyu District, Chenonlo Woch, in recognition of his outstanding service to district football. Following the final whistle, Kemp was given a guard of honour by players from Tseminyu, Meluri, and Niuland in a rare and emotional display of sporting respect.
The match marked the final group stage appearance for both Tseminyu and Meluri in this edition of the tournament.
Niuland edge past Zunheboto 2–1
In Match 20, Niuland overcame Zunheboto 2–1 in a tightly contested encounter. The team took early control of the match with Apeto opening the scoring in the 29th minute. Kakhevi extended the lead in the 36th minute, putting Niuland in a comfortable position heading into the break.
Zunheboto responded in the second half with Tohika pulling one back in the 61st minute. However, Niuland’s defensive unit held firm in the closing stages, denying Zunheboto any chance of an equalizer.
Match officials described the game as intense and physically demanding, with both teams showcasing a high level of commitment.
The tournament continues to gain momentum as it enters its decisive phase and heads for the finals next week.
August 8 Fixture
Match 21: 9 AM
Noklak Vs Longleng
Match 22: 11 AM
Mon Vs Zunheboto 11 AM
Match 23: 1 PM
Dimapur Vs Chümoukedima
Match 24: 3 PM
Peren Vs Kohima