Shillong: Shillong Lajong FC staged a dramatic comeback to secure their fifth league title, defeating Mawlai SC 2-1 in the final match of the OC Blue Shillong Premier League 2024 at the SSA Stadium. Mawlai, undefeated throughout the season, required only a draw to claim their third consecutive SPL trophy.
The contest commenced with an early breakthrough, as Abhay Chettri netted his only goal of the season in the 10th minute, putting Lajong ahead. Mawlai pressed for an equalizer but struggled to breach Lajong’s resilient defence. The lead was doubled in the 76th minute when Samchaphrang Lato scored his third goal in as many matches off a precise cross from Babysunday Marngar.
Mawlai refused to concede defeat, reigniting hopes with an 88th-minute penalty converted by Damanbhalang Chyne. However, Lajong held firm to seal the title. Both teams finished the season level on 45 points, with Lajong edging ahead based on head-to-head results and a superior goal difference.
The champions, Shillong Lajong FC, received a prize of Rs 6 lakh, while runners-up Mawlai SC took home Rs 3 lakh. The trophy and awards were presented by Meghalaya’s Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, Shakliar Warjri. Deibormame was recognised as the Top Scorer of the season with 20 goals, earning a memento from Meghalaya Football Association President Hamletson Dohling.