Lekie Mtei FC maintained their winning streak by defeating the defending league champion Puiteing FC to stay at the top of the table with 16 points, while Jalukie Falcons FC closely follows after winning their 6th round match against Nchangram Lun FC with 13 points at the ongoing Peren District Football League (PDFL) on Thursday at Mhainamtsi village ground.
In a nail-biting encounter, leader Lekie Mtei FC beat defending league champion Puiteing FC 3-2. Puiteing seemed eager to find an early breakthrough, however, Lekie Mtei FC took advantage of their first real chance in the 9th minute through a long shot from Haokhohen was headed by Ngaugiadi, giving Lekie Mtei FC an early 1-0 lead.
Puiteing FC tried to regroup but Lekie Mtei’s defensive resilience did not allow them to penetrate. Lekie Mtei FC, on the other hand, remained a constant threat on the counter.
As the first half progressed, Puiteing FC struggled to break down Lekie Mtei’s defense. Lekie Mtei FC came close to doubling their lead in the 35th minute when Yhoto’s shot hit the post.
The first half ended with Puiteing FC trailing by a single goal. The second half began with Puiteing FC looking to equalize. A defensive error by Ngaugiadi in the 48th minute nearly led to a goal, but Puiteing FC couldn’t capitalize on the mistake. As they pushed forward, their efforts were thwarted by Lekie Mtei FC’s sturdy defense. However, Puiteing FC finally broke through in the 61st minute when Wibonjibo’s long-range shot was flicked on by Lekie Mtei’s Haokhohen, and this time, the ball found the back of the net. This equalizer brought the score to 1-1, and the momentum shifted slightly in Puiteing FC’s favor.
But spirited Lekie Mtei FC fought back to earn their lead in the 78th minute when Lungneuying’s header restored their lead, making it 2-1. Just four minutes later, in the 82nd minute, Yhoto’s header from a cross made it 3-1 in favour of Lekie Mtei FC. At this point, Lekie Mtei FC was in control of the match, and their dominance in the air was proving decisive. Puiteing FC fought back, though, and in the 88th minute, Henry Lankao Kamei’s free kick was collected by Suiyigong, who chipped the ball over Nzailong, bringing the score to 3-2. This late goal set up a tense finish, but Lekie Mtei FC held on to their lead.
Yhoto Lohe of lekie Mtei was the standout performer, earning the “Khamlou Man of the Match” award for his goal and assist.
In another match, Jalukie Falcon FC upset Nchangram Lun FC 3-1 chasing Lekie Mtei FC closely with 3 points behind. The first breakthrough came in the 16th minute when Jalukie Falcon’s Khiuwangbo delivered a slow but accurate forward pass, which Khangkinwi converted with skilful finish.
Nchangram Lun FC struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. Despite several opportunities, including a perfectly measured long ball from Winamthiu to Nisede in the 22nd minute, they couldn’t find the back of the net. The first half ended with Jalukie Falcons leading 1-0.
The second half saw Jalukie Falcons continuing their dominance. Nchangram Lun FC made several substitutions, hoping to change the game’s dynamics. In the 58th minute, Falcons’ Ngamminlun capitalized on a mistake by Itingtui, scoring from a cross, assisted by Khiuwangbo. Despite Nchangram Lun FC’s efforts, Jalukie Falcons’ defense remained solid.
In the 72nd minute, Toka’s cross was blocked by Itingtui, but Khangkinwi converted the rebound comfortably, making it 3-0. Jalukie Falcons demonstrated their ability to stay composed and finish off plays.
Nchangram Lun FC didn’t give up, though. In the 80th minute, Jacob penetrated the defense and passed to Ratobe, whose thunderous strike finally found the back of the net. This goal showcased Nchangram Lun FC’s resilience and their ability to create dangerous opportunities when given space.
Despite a few more attempts from both sides, the match ended 3-1 in favour of Jalukie Falcons.
Khamlou Man of the match was awarded to Ngaminlun of Jalukie Falcons.
Friday’s Matches
Benreu FC Vs Ngaulong NYO – 1 pm
Kuki FC Vs Kingdom Stewards – 3 pm