Zalen, Ninou to clash for Khanglai title
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 04 2014 :
FC Zalen and Ninou FC overcame their respective semifinal opponents to set up summit clash in the 3rd Khanglai Meet football tournament.
Living up to their billing as the hot favourites for the title Zalen staved off a strong challenge from JSYC to enter the final with a hard fought 2-1 victory margin while Nin-ou edged out Nelson FC 9-8 in sudden death following a 1-1 stalemate in normal period in the last four clashes at Brig Thomas Ground, Kangpokpi today.
The Zalen versus JSYC match saw Haotinkhup Simte bring smile on the faces of the team supporters with the opening goal in the 20th minute.
While JSYC managed to restore parity early in the second half, Zalen's prolific scorer in the tournament He-lun Haokip ensured his side stay in course for the crown with the match-winner from a well executed free kick late in the match.
Earlier, goalkeeper Mang-cha, who kept his side in con- tention for a shot at the title with brilliant saves under the nelson FC bar, ironically turned out to be the villain for failing to outwit his opposite number during the penalty shoot-out.
Mangcha's failure was however a moment to cherish for the Ninou FC who ultimately emerged 9-8 winners from the tense shoot-out.
Date for the final between FC Zalen and Ninou FC is yet to be decided.