Aphuyemi down Proper V to lift Futsal championship

Kohima, Oct 9 (EMN): In a thrilling final encounter played out here at Reiphinyü Badze Vürie on Sunday, Aphuyemi FC Zunheboto trounced Proper V FC Mon 10 – 6 to clinch the 2nd Nagaland State Futsal championship.

Aphuyemi FC remained unbeaten in the championship winning all the five matches in the tournament.

In the first half, Toka Achumi scored five goals for Aphuyemi FC while Proper V FC managed to score a lone, thereby building up the pressure for Mon team.

Even as Aphuyemi FC continued their goal scoring spree, their goalkeeper Homuka Yeputho stole the show by effectively blocking the rival players in their attempts to score.

In the second half, Mon improved their goal scoring line but Aphuyemi FC with a huge goal margin dominated the game and sealed the fate of Proper V FC with a huge goal 10 -6  margin.

It was a jubilant moment for the visiting fans of Zunheboto who came in huge numbers to support their team, which back home with the coveted title.

Earlier, Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) secretary general, Abu Metha, the guest of honour in his speech said Nagas need to develop their own style of game play and improve to be able to compete with players from other parts of the world.

Highlighting the versatility of football, he said the game could be designed to match the physique and mental capabilities of players all across the globe depending on their unique features.

Observing how newer football styles like Tiki-taka or Tiqui-taca (ˈtikiˈtaka), a style of play in Spain’s football characterised by short passing and movement, working the ball through various channels, and maintaining possession, Metha said Naga players can also develop similar styles suitable to their physique and style.

Aphuyemi FC received INR 100,000 along with citations and Proper V FC received INR 50,000.

The champions Aphuyemi FC will now represent Nagaland in the upcoming national Futsal championship which will be held in the month of November.

The 3-day championship is organised by Nagaland Football Association hosted by Kohima District Football Association.