Rangdajied United FC and Shillong Lajong FC secured decisive victories in their respective matches at the OC Blue Shillong Premier League 2024, held at the SSA Stadium, Polo. While Rangdajied dominated Sawmer SC with a 4-0 rout, Lajong edged past Laitkor SC in a closely contested 1-0 win. In the first match, Rangdajied’s fiery start saw them net all four goals within the first 30 minutes. Ieitlang Syiemlieh showcased exceptional skill and a touch of fortune with two remarkable goals in the 16th and 30th minutes. His first goal came off a free kick that rebounded off the woodwork and the goalkeeper before crossing the line. The second was an almost identical strike, this time during open play. Wansiewdor Nengnong added to the tally in the 19th minute with a swift run into the box, threading the ball past the goalkeeper and a defender. Arlangky Nongsiej sealed the first-half dominance by converting a header set up by Fedrick Wahlang. Sawmer, returning to action after over a month, struggled defensively, with injuries forcing key players to the bench.
The second half saw fewer goals but plenty of action, including two near-misses—one from Sawmer’s Hamebantei Khongphai, who rattled the crossbar, and another from Rangdajied’s Arlangky. In the later match, Lajong’s Deibormame Tongper emerged as the hero, scoring the solitary goal in the 74th minute. However, the celebration was short-lived as Tongper was injured during the play and had to be substituted immediately. Laitkor SC had their chances but failed to capitalize. Early on, Iaryngkatlang Kharkrang’s shot was blocked by Lajong’s goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai, who also denied a rebound. Lajong’s Babysunday Marngar had a goal disallowed for offside and missed a critical opportunity just before halftime.
Tongper’s winning goal came from a well-executed low left-footer that bypassed both a defender and Laitkor’s goalkeeper Deranius Wahlang. Despite their spirited effort, Laitkor wrapped up the first leg with 10 points from three wins, one draw, and five losses. Their recent form has been lackluster, failing to score in four of their last five matches.
