Daniel Goncalves clearly demonstrated what an asset he is in a set-piece as he scored an equaliser for Shillong Lajong FC that stretches their unbeaten run in I-League 2023-24 to seven matches.
Lajong were on the road for only the second time this season, playing Rajasthan United FC at the latter’s home ground in Hyderabad, and the match ended 1-1. Brazilian defender Goncalves has now scored three goals this season, the most of any SLFC player.
Rajasthan United have quite a few North East players in the squad, including Banpynkhrawnam Nongkhlaw of Meghalaya, who was in the starting XI today. Lajong made a couple of changes, with coach Bobby Lyngdoh Nongbet bringing in Saveme Tariang, Pursunep and Renan Paulino de Souza (the club’s other Brazilian) in place of Allen Lyngdoh Nongbri, Figo Syndai and Shano Tariang.
Rajasthan took the lead after a cross from the right in only the ninth minute. The first touch by Richardson Denzell square in front of goal saw the ball pop high into the air but he volleyed the ball strongly, sending it off the crossbar and down across the goal line.
While the more aggressive team in the first half, Rajasthan went all-defensive in the second. Although a risky strategy when leading only 1-0, it almost paid off.
There were just seconds left in the match when they conceded a free-kick on the left hand side of the pitch near the box. Taken low by Hardy Cliff Nongbri, it went straight at Goncalves who tipped it backwards with a flick of the head towards the net and the goalkeeper was rooted to the spot. Hardy now has four assists, putting him joint highest in the league.
Lajong are fourth in the table with 13 points (tied with Real Kashmir FC, who they have yet to meet), while lowly Rajasthan are 12th with 5 points.
Lajong will have little time to rest as they will now return home in order to face Churchill Brothers on Wednesday.
