Mizoram Premier League Season 8 opening match between Electric Veng FC and FC Venghnuai at the Lammual Stadium, Aizawl. (Photo courtesy: Mizoram Football Association)
A rematch to the NEXA Independence Day Trophy final ended with points shared as Electric Veng FC and FC Venghnuai shared points in an even match up under the lights on Thursday.
Electric Veng FC, winners from their last meeting were the team who struck first when an inadvertent header from FC Venghnuai defender Israel Laldingngheta ended up in his own net on the 10th minute.
FC Venghnuai tried to find a response looking for inspiration from Lalhmunsiama and Vanlalthanga but it was Electric Veng FC who managed better control in the first 45 minutes. Zawnhmingthanga had already forced FC Venghnuai goalkeeper RS Lallawmzuala to make a brilliant save before he put the ball in the back of the minutes before halftime only for the goal to be ruled offside.
Newly promoted FC Venghnuai are a team who have already proved their resilience in the I-Day trophy and they rose to the challenge again in the second period as Vanlalthanga, their go-to-man provided threats from the flanks.
Electric Veng FC midfielder Jacob Lalrawngbawla tried to create openings for Vanlallawma and Ramhlunchhunga but a well-marshalled Venghnuai backline offered little space. And it was Vanlalthanga who came up with the equaliser for FC Venghnuai on the 82nd minute with a trademark freekick.
There was still time for a late twist when FC Venghnuai defender Lalmuanawma was sent off but it was too late for Electric Veng FC to make the best of their numerical advantage as both sides had to settle for a deserved point each.
(Mizoram Football Association)