Shillong, Sep 4: Rangdajied United put a halt to Nangkiew Irat’s winning streak with a 1-1 draw in a tempestuous Shillong Premier League 2025 match at the SSA Stadium at First Ground, Polo, here today.
Manbhakupar Iawphniaw (23′) put Rangdajied into the lead but substitute Wanlamsuk Nongkhlaw (66′) found the equaliser in the second half.
The referee, P Mawthoh, had to reach into his pocket numerous times for his yellow card, with players from both sides going into the book. The high energy on the pitch translated into a few confrontations and it did not stop with the final whistle, with more drama at the end of the game. Red cards were flashed at a Nangkiew Irat player and the Rangdajied coach, which could have big consequences in the two teams’ next matches.
Coming back to the action, Rangdajied, who have had a lacklustre start to the season, were a different side today, looking hungrier, faster and more determined than ever.
Stephanson Pale twice challenged Nangkiew Irat goalkeeper Surjay Kumar Pariyar in under 15 minutes of the start but the custodian was equal to the task on both occasions.
Although he did not get his name on the scoresheet, Micky Marwein was RUFC’s standout player today, with the little dynamo playing a big part in his team’s performance, with excellent ball control and thought process.
His hard work on the right flank led to Rangdajied’s goal as he took on and beat a defender before delivering a cross for Manbha to tap in for the 50th goal of the season.
Benny Khriam had a chance to double Rangdajied’s lead in the 37th minute but he blazed the ball over the crossbar. For their part, Nangkiew Irat had several set-pieces that were of interest but nothing was on target.
In the second half, Wanlamsuk came on to replace Raikutshisha Buam and almost immediately made an impact. Nangkiew Irat won a corner, which was punched away by RUFC goalie Kerichard L Marshillong. Edyvenson Dhar then sent the ball back with a lightning strike and the keeper blocked but could not gather the ball, allowing Wanlamsuk to knock the rebound into the back of the net.
Nangkiew Irat still remain unbeaten in what has been a terrific season for them but they will hurt at not being able to continue their winning streak. They remain at the top of the standings with 10 points from four games, while Rangdajied moved up from sixth to fourth place and now have 5 points, also from four outings.
Tomorrow eighth-placed Sawmer will take on fifth-placed Langsning at 4:30pm.
