Rangdajied United FC eye SPL glory against reigning champs Mawlai SC

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 10, 2024

Mawlai SC and Rangdajied United FC have dominated the Shillong Premier League for two consecutive seasons, and they are set to clash in the SPL 2023 final tomorrow at 3pm to determine this season’s champion.

Mawlai, the reigning champions from 2022 are eager to defend their title, while Rangdajied, last season’s runners-up, aim to clinch the trophy this time around.

RUFC secured the top spot in the SPL 2023 round-robin stage with 18 points from seven games, followed closely by Mawlai with 16 points. In the semifinals, Rangdajied defeated Shillong Lajong FC 1-0, while Mawlai triumphed over Langsning FC 2-1.

Due to time constraints, the SPL was condensed to a single-leg format for the first time, with no relegation for the season, as agreed upon by the Shillong Sports Association and the participating teams.

In their sole encounter this year, Rangdajied narrowly defeated Mawlai 2-1 on April 26. However, both teams recognize that the final presents a different challenge altogether.

Ahead of the final, Mawlai SC Joint Secretary Esekiel S Mon and Assistant Coach Jerry A Sutnga expressed concerns about three senior players’ injuries. Despite this, Mawlai’s younger players have impressed on the field, supported by the leadership of captain Brolington Warlarpih and seasoned player Fullmoon Mukhim.

Rangdajied United, on the other hand, have maintained their momentum since finishing second in SPL 2022, winning the 3rd Meghalaya State League title in 2023 and participating in the All India Football Federation’s I-League 3 in Goa.

Head Coach Aibanjop Shadap highlighted the importance of winning the SPL for the team’s reputation and praised the guidance provided by senior players to the younger members.

Both teams acknowledge the importance of being at their best for the final, understanding the shift in approach required for knockout matches compared to round-robin fixtures.

The final will take place at 3pm at the SSA Stadium at First Ground, Polo, with tickets available at the venue before the match.