Imphal United ease into quarterfinals of Manoranjan football tournament
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 15 2023:
Imphal United (Awang Sekmai) pulled off a 2-0 win over SYMROPIA FC (Churachandpur) in their pre-quarterfinal encounter in the 13th Shaheed Manoranjan Singh Memorial State Level Open Football Tournament at SAI Sports Complex, Takyel on Wednesday.
It was a stiff contest but Imphal United were the better side in both halves as SYMROPIA's attacking front struggled at both ends, exhibiting their lack of finishing touches.
The early stages of the first half saw back-and-forth exchanges with some missed chances from both teams, but Imphal United gradually got their act together and sprang a surprise on their opponents to gain the upper hand before the end the first period.
It was Shekar made his strike count in the 30th minute as the Awang Sekmai squad on built their first-half goal to run out 2-0 winners on their way to the quarterfinals.
After the break, Imphal United went further ahead after Soraisam Robinson struck in their second goal in the 66th minute as SYMROPIA FC's late efforts proved futile.
Imphal United will next meet winners of the match (Feb 18) between F4C and Poloi.
On Thursday (February 16), SSU (Singjamei) and GDC (Thingungei) will square off for a quarterfinal berth.