Shillong Lajong dominates first leg, Mawlai narrowly win in Meghalaya State League semifinal

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 10, 2023

Shillong Lajong achieved a commanding 3-0 victory over Rangdajied United in the first leg of the Meghalaya State League 2023 semifinal at the Kiang Nangbah Stadium in Jowai. Meanwhile, Mawlai secured a close 1-0 win against Khliehmawlieh in the second semifinal in Tura.

The knockout round consists of two legs, providing the losing teams an opportunity to overturn the deficit in the return fixtures on 13 June.

Despite being non-local teams, both matches had an impressive turnout of spectators eager to witness high-quality football.

Shillong Lajong’s goals came from Henry Ford Nongneng (17′), Hardy Cliff Nongbri (55′), and an own goal by Arkwis Wanniang (82′). Rangdajied United had their chances, but must now deliver an exceptional performance in the second leg.

In Tura, Mawlai’s late breakthrough came in the 50th minute through Wanboklang Lyngkhoi. A long ball into the box was headed away by Khliehmawlieh but Donlad Diengdoh was in the way. His shot, however, was blocked by the goalkeeper but the rebound went straight to Lyngkhoi, who bundled the ball into the back of the net.