Shillong: Babysunday Marngar delivered a stellar performance, scoring a hat-trick as Shillong Lajong FC dominated Nongthymmai SC with a 6-1 victory in the OC Blue Shillong Premier League 2024 at the SSA Stadium, Polo, on January 20.
Marngar’s goals (20’, 40’, 60’) set the tone for Lajong’s commanding display, supported by goals from Firstborn Roy Khongsti (22’), Yohaan Benjamin (32’), and Emanbha Marbaniang (63’). Nongthymmai’s sole response came through Donald Tariang in the 52nd minute.
This match marked the conclusion of the first-leg fixtures for both teams. Shillong Lajong FC closed with an impressive 22 points, securing seven wins, one draw, and one loss. Nongthymmai, however, remained at 7 points with two wins, one draw, and six defeats.
Lajong opened their account early, with Yohaan Benjamin delivering a precise cross for Babysunday’s opening header. Minutes later, Firstborn doubled the lead with another well-executed header from a swift corner. Yohaan soon turned scorer, capitalizing on a defensive lapse and slipping the ball past Nongthymmai’s goalkeeper, Akash Thapa.
Babysunday added his second goal before halftime, cutting in from the left and delivering a low shot beyond Akash’s reach. Nongthymmai showed some intent in the second half, with Donald Tariang scoring via a well-placed volley, but Lajong maintained their dominance. Babysunday completed his hat-trick with another header, and Emanbha capped off the scoring after combining brilliantly with Yohaan.
The final first-leg match will take place on January 21, featuring reigning champions Mawlai SC against Sawmer SC at 2:30 pm.
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