Drama Unfolds as Longterok FC Edges Frontier Warriors in Thrilling NSL Clash
In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Longterok FC snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Frontier Warriors FC in the Nagaland Super League (NSL) at IG Stadium, Kohima, on February 26, 2025. The high-octane clash, punctuated by a second-half comeback and a stoppage-time winner, showcased the unpredictable nature of the league.
The Two Halves of Dominance to Comeback
Though Frontier Warriors controlled the possession, the first half belonged to Longterok FC, who surged ahead with two quickfire goals from Assumi. The striker opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a thunderous strike from outside the box, silencing the home crowd. Just three minutes later, Assumi doubled the lead, leaving Frontier Warriors scrambling to regroup. Longterok’s Arap Konyak nearly added a third with a teasing cross, but the hosts survived the half-time whistle trailing 0-2.
The second half, however, was a completely different story. Frontier Warriors erupted with an attacking frenzy, earning a penalty in the 46th minute. Ayenmongba’s initial spot-kick struck the crossbar, but Mughahuto Chishi pounced on the rebound to halve the deficit. The momentum shifted entirely as FWFC pressed relentlessly, hitting the woodwork twice and finally leveling the score in the 58th minute. Ayenmongba’s header from Dangmei’s pinpoint cross ignited hope of a comeback.
But Longterok had one final trick up their sleeve. In the 91st minute, substitute Manton unleashed a stunning long-range strike that soared into the net, denying Frontier Warriors a point and sealing a 3-2 win.
Match Analysis: Resilience vs. Clinical Finishing
Longterok’s first-half dominance was built on clinical finishing and 59% possession, with Assumi’s double setting the tone. Frontier Warriors, though defensively shaky early on, showed remarkable resilience, registering 12 shots (10 on target) in the second half. Their attacking flair nearly stole a point, but defensive lapses and missed chances proved costly.
Key stats highlighted the turnaround:
- Shots: FWFC (14) vs. LFC (11)
- Possession: FWFC (48%) vs. LFC (52%)
- Corners: FWFC (13) vs. LFC (4)
Post-Match Buzz: Title Hopes and Defensive Woes
Longterok’s late heroics keep them in the NSL title race, while Frontier Warriors’ collapse raises alarm bells about their defensive stability. Man of the Match Manton’s spectacular winner cemented his match-winning impact, leaving fans buzzing about the drama.
What’s Next?
The action continues on March 1:
Longterok FC face 27 United FC at IG Stadium, Kohima (2 PM IST).
Frontier Warriors FC takes on Red Scars at IG Stadium, Kohima (5 PM IST).
As the NSL heats up, both teams will look to build on this electrifying encounter. Stay tuned for more thrills!
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Date: February 27, 2025
League Standings
| Team Name | GP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Barak FC |
12 | 9 | 2 | 1 | 26 | 9 | +17 | 29 |
Nagaland United SC |
12 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 23 | 9 | +14 | 21 |
Longterok FC |
12 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 17 | 12 | +7 | 20 |
27 United |
12 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 18 | 28 | -10 | 16 |
Sechu Zubza FC |
12 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 23 | 20 | +3 | 15 |
Red Scars |
12 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 17 | -7 | 10 |
Frontier Warriors |
12 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 18 | 40 | -22 | 4 |
