Shillong, Aug 5: Laitkor were trailing by a goal at half time but turned things around in the second half to beat Mylliem 3-1 in the seventh match of the Shillong Premier League 2026 at the SSA Stadium here today.
Mylliem led thanks to Caldolan Kharmawphlang (39’) but Laitkor fought back with goals by Samborwell Mynsong (47’), Hamingbert Nongbet (56’) and Risuk Malngiang (69’).
Both sides made three changes each to their starting lineups. Mylliem were forced into one as Shaibor Nongrum got a red card in the first match. Kevizakie Ciesotsu and Fedrick Wahlang were also out and in their places came Donboklang Nongsteng, Donboklang Majaw and Alem Khongwir.
For Laitkor, Balajiedlang Lyngwa, Shelbilkstar Kharshilot and Iaryngkatlang Kharkrang were in the starting XI replacing Samuel Suting, Wadskhem Marbaniang and Kitdor Kharphuli.
The two clubs began very cautiously, unsurprisingly as they had tasted defeat in their opening matches. While Mylliem were narrowly beaten by Nongkseh 1-0 on 27 July, Laitkor received a drubbing at the hands of Mawlai, going down 5-0 on 30 July.
Mylliem started to up the ante after half an hour of play, with Alem Khongwir having two chances, one of which he hit over the crossbar and one that went straight to Laitkor goalkeeper Deranius Wahlang.
It was Laitkor, however, who had the best chance to take the lead when Hamingbert was fouled in the box by Donboklang Nongsteng. Risuk stepped up to take the penalty (the first of SPL 2026) but sent the spot kick wide. Hamingbert was then denied a few minutes later when he went one-on-one with Mylliem custodian Rihoklang Khongjoh, who blocked the shot.
Remark Kharmalki’s effort led to the first goal. The Mylliem forward used his pace to nip past Laitkor defenders and crossed the ball into the path of Caldolan, who had time and space to size up his chances. He chose placement over power and right-footed the ball perfectly into the back of the net.
The second half began on the right note for Laitkor. They made a half time substitution with Samborwell being brought on and the dangerous forward made an immediate impact by heading in a ball chipped towards him.
Hamingbert then got his reward for an excellent performance throughout the match. He ran with the ball up the left flank and then darted in towards the box from where he placed the ball low out of Rihoklang’s reach at a difficult angle.
After his missed penalty Risuk must have been breathing a sigh of relief that his team now had the lead and he fully made amends by scoring Laitkor’s third goal. Risuk came charging at the Mylliem goal chasing after the ball and the opposition goalie was late to react. Rihoklang did manage to get his boot to the ball first but Risuk was too close and the ball hit the Laitkor player and headed over the goal line.
Laitkor, unlike many teams in Meghalaya or even India for that matter, sensibly kept possession for the last 15 minutes and held on for a stirring 3-1 win that will lift their spirits no end.
The next match in the SPL will be announced in due course by the Shillong Sports Association. Consideration is being given in scheduling the fixtures as three SPL teams – Shillong Lajong, Nongkseh and Langsning – are taking part in the ongoing Durand Cup 2026.
