Meghalaya advance to Santosh Trophy final round with 1-1 draw against Assam

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 24, 2024

Meghalaya secured a spot in the final round of the Senior Men’s National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2024-25 with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Assam in Nalbari, Assam, on November 24.

With one draw and wins against Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya topped Group E in the preliminary round, earning 7 points. Only the group winners progress to the final round.

Meghalaya’s coach, Hering Shangpliang, made a single change to the lineup, bringing in Baiaikara Swer to replace Kevin Rymbai in midfield. Knowing a draw was sufficient, Meghalaya struck first through Damanbhalang Chyne in the 56th minute. However, Assam equalized with a late penalty by Dipu Mirdha in the 88th minute. Despite Assam’s relentless pressure, Meghalaya held firm to claim the crucial point. Damanbhalang was named Player of the Match for his decisive performance.

The team received strong support from Meghalaya Football Association President Hamletson Dohling, MFA General Secretary Sunesh Syiem, and Adviser HM Shangpliang, who were present at the venue to encourage the players.

In the final round, Meghalaya will compete in Group B alongside Goa, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Delhi, and Odisha. Their fixtures are scheduled between December 15 and 24.

Meghalaya’s Squad vs Assam:

Siwel Rymbai (GK), Overkindness L Mawnai, Arlangky Nongsiej, Donborlang Nongkynrih (sub Banraplang Pyngrope 45’+4), Wanboklang Lyngkhoi, Aibiangmame Nongneng (sub Fairming Suting 77′), Robertson Khongriah, Fullmoon Mukhim, Damanbhalang Chyne, Baiaikara Swer, Donlad Diengdoh (sub Aenam Jyrwa 90′)

Meghalaya’s Final Round Fixtures:

vs Tamil Nadu: 15 December
vs Kerala: 17 December
vs Delhi: 19 December
vs Goa: 22 December
vs Odisha: 24 December