Shillong, May 18:
Nongkseh SSCC went to the top of Group A in the 5th Meghalaya State League’s quarterfinal stage by beating Shillong Lajong FC 2-0 at the SSA Stadium here this evening.
Sheen Sohktung (67’) and Mebankhraw Wahlang (69’) were the scorers in the latest meeting of what is quickly turning into Shillong, and Meghalaya’s, new great rivalry.
In the earlier game, defending champions Mawlai SC secured their first win of the quarterfinal stage by beating Rangdajied United FC 2-1.
The first half between Lajong and Nongkseh, which was played out in front of a packed crowd, was a cautious affair for both sides as neither wanted to go behind. Wilbert Marbaniang had one clear chance for Lajong in just the ninth minute but his effort was powerfully punched away by Nongkseh custodian Guidle Syiemlieh.
In the end, the game turned in the space of a few minutes. Nongkseh were more aggressive in the second half and both Sheen and Mebankhraw scored from set-pieces as they kept their heads when it mattered most.
Nongkseh now have 7 points from three games, with Lajong second on 6. This defeat ended SLFC’s nine-game winning streak.
Basuklang Bina (39′) and Kevin Rymbai (61′) scored for Mawlai on either side of Mebannangkiew Thabah (45’+1) penalty for RUFC.
Both teams had a goal disallowed in the first half due to offside but there was no overturning Basuklang’s fine left-footer which he threaded through a couple of defenders. Mawlai were unable to hold on to the lead, however, as a foul in the box gave Rangdajied a penalty, which Mebannangkiew converted before the break.
The second half was played under torrential rain, which made conditions more difficult to negotiate. The more experienced Mawlai players, though, dealt with the standing water better and Kevin, who was introduced at the start of the second half tapped in a powerful cross from Jestibor Mawlong to restore Mawlai’s lead, which they held on to the final whistle.
Mawlai now have 4 points from three games while Rangdajied are still on 0. They have played well in the quarterfinal stage and have only been defeated by narrow one goal margins in all three outings but progressing to the semifinals now looks very difficult for them.
Tomorrow, in Group B, Nangkiew Irat SC will face leaders Langsning FC at 2pm followed by Maram FC against Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC at 6pm.
