Shillong: Reigning champions Mawlai SC missed a crucial opportunity to extend their lead in the OC Blue Shillong Premier League 2024 after being held to a 1-1 draw by Langsning FC at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, on February 6. Meanwhile, Rangdajied United FC secured a 2-0 victory over Sawmer SC, keeping their title hopes alive.
Mawlai got off to a promising start when Damanbhalang Chyne found the net in the 9th minute, giving his side an early advantage. However, Langsning FC responded with determination, as Dauruhipaia Pale capitalized on a defensive lapse to head home the equalizer in the 27th minute. The game remained tightly contested, with Langsning looking the more threatening side for the remainder of the match.
Mawlai, fresh off their Meghalaya State League triumph, struggled to find their rhythm, with misdirected passes and poor finishing hindering their performance. Langsning, on the other hand, extended their unbeaten streak to five games, showcasing an impressive defensive structure and quick counterattacks. The draw meant that Mawlai missed the chance to go five points clear of their closest challengers, Shillong Lajong FC, who also played out a 1-1 draw against Nongthymmai SC.
The current standings see Mawlai leading with 29 points, three ahead of Shillong Lajong. However, Rangdajied United, with an equal number of points, remain in contention despite having played two more matches than the other title contenders. Langsning’s steady rise has also placed them in fourth position, although they have played more fixtures than their rivals.
In the second fixture of the day, Rangdajied United FC claimed a 2-0 win over Sawmer SC, thanks to a brace from Owanijuh Pajuh. Despite a slow first half, Rangdajied found their breakthrough in the 67th minute when Pajuh capitalized on a rebound after Sawmer goalkeeper Jeffrey G Jyrwa attempted to punch away a cross. Pajuh doubled the lead in the 82nd minute, skillfully maneuvering past a defender before slotting the ball into the net.
Sawmer, struggling with injuries to key players, showed resilience but were unable to convert their attacking efforts into goals. Aibanraplang Dohling came closest for them, hitting the woodwork in the 65th minute before Rangdajied took control of the match.
With no matches scheduled until Monday, all eyes will be on Laitkor SC and Shillong Lajong FC when they face off at 11 am, followed by a crucial relegation battle between Ryntih FC and Nongthymmai SC at 2:30 pm.
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