GANGTOK,: In a regional derby, Northeast United FC overpowered Mizoram club Khawzawl Vengthar FC 3-1 in extra-time to clinch a quarterfinal spot in the 40th Governor’s Gold Cup.
The Thursday afternoon match had ended in a goalless draw in regulation time. Both sides were equally matched though Northeast United held a slight edge in terms of creating goalscoring opportunities.
Early in extra-time, Northeast United finally beat the opponent’s defence with a neatly placed header from Bekey Oram in the 94th minute. He doubled the lead in the 109th minute after deftly lobbing the ball into the net over the onrushing goalkeeper.
Two minutes later, Mohammad Zahan struck an excellent goal to make it 3-0 and clinch the match for Northeast United FC.
Late into the second half of extra time, V. Lalhriatrenga managed to pull one goal back for the Mizoram club but it could not change the match’s outcome.
Bekey Oram was declared the ‘Man of the Match’.
With this victory, Northeast United FC has set a quarterfinal date with Royal FC, Dubai on November 18.
Sikkimese footballer Robin Chettri played a vital role in his Northeast United FC team’’s win. He played in the starting XI as a right back.
Robin hails from DPH area, Gangtok.
Speaking to the media, Chettri expressed his happiness on the victory and also on playing in his home ground with Northeast United FC. I have grown up playing in this ground but there is another kind of emotion when you play here after working hard to get into a big club from outside the State, he expressed.
Regarding the upcoming quarterfinal match, Chettri said the team will prepare as per the coach’s tactics besides working on improving their game and correcting the mistakes made in today’s game.
Today’s Match
Chennaiyin FC vs Diamond Harbour FC
Peep! 2 pm
Northeast United FC’s Bekey Oram receiving the ‘Man of the March’ award from Forest minister Pintso Namgyal Lepcha. SE Pic