Shillong, May 19: Nongkseh SSCC moved to the top of Group A in the quarterfinal stage of the 5th Meghalaya State League after defeating Shillong Lajong FC 2-0 at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on May 18, bringing Lajong’s nine-match winning streak in the competition to an end.
The opening half was closely fought, with both teams maintaining a cautious approach before a packed crowd. Shillong Lajong created an early opportunity in the ninth minute when Wilbert Marbaniang tested Nongkseh goalkeeper Guidle Syiemlieh, but the attempt was denied by a strong save.
The game shifted decisively after the break as Nongkseh made the most of set-piece opportunities within a short spell. Sheen Sohktung opened the scoring in the 67th minute before Mebankhraw Wahlang doubled the lead two minutes later in the 69th minute, putting Nongkseh in command of the contest.
The victory lifted Nongkseh to seven points from three matches, moving them one point ahead of Shillong Lajong in the Group A standings.
Earlier in the day, defending champions Mawlai SC secured their first win of the quarterfinal stage with a 2-1 victory over Rangdajied United FC.
Basuklang Bina put Mawlai ahead in the 39th minute with a low strike through a crowded defence. Rangdajied responded just before the interval after winning a penalty, with Mebannangkiew Thabah converting in stoppage time to restore parity.
Heavy rain in the second half created difficult playing conditions, with waterlogged sections affecting movement and passing. Mawlai adjusted better and regained the lead in the 61st minute when substitute Kevin Rymbai finished a cross from Jestibor Mawlong.
The win moved Mawlai to four points from three matches. Rangdajied remain without a point despite losing narrowly in all three quarterfinal fixtures, leaving their semifinal prospects in a difficult position.
Group B action resumes on May 19, with Nangkiew Irat SC set to take on leaders Langsning FC, while Maram FC will face Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC later in the day.
