Gangtok, January 11: Nongkseh Sports Social and Cultural Club booked a place in the quarter-finals of the 11th All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup International Football Tournament with a 1–0 victory over Eastern Railway FC (Kolkata) on Sunday.
Club captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri proved decisive, converting a first-half penalty after Khrawkupar Jana was fouled at the edge of the box in the early minutes of the match. The goal ultimately separated the two sides in an intense and physical encounter.
Eastern Railway adopted an aggressive approach and were shown a couple of yellow cards in the first half.
Tempers flared just before the break when an Eastern Railway player elbowed Hardy Cliff, forcing the Nongkseh skipper to be substituted and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he received two stitches on his upper lip.
The club later confirmed that Hardy is recovering well and has been discharged from the hospital, with doctors advising him to strictly adhere to medical instructions.
Despite the setback, Nongkseh returned strongly in the second half, pressing high and creating several chances, though they failed to add to their tally.
Eastern Railway continued to rely on physical play, which backfired as they were reduced to nine men after receiving two red cards.
Nongkseh held firm to seal the narrow win and advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face former I-League side NEROCA FC of Manipur on January 16.
Meanwhile, Nongkseh’s No. 27 Shano Tariang was adjudged Man of the Match for his standout performance.
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