Shillong: The big Shillong-based clubs stamped their authority in the Meghalaya State League Round of 16 on Monday as reigning champions Mawlai SC, Shillong Lajong FC, Nongkseh SSCC, Nangkiew Irat SC and Rangdajied United FC all booked their places in the quarterfinals with commanding performances across the state.
Joining them in the next stage are Maram FC from West Garo Hills and Rymbai Shkenshynriah from East Jaiñtia Hills, while the clash between Langsning FC and Lumphyrnai Sohphoh FC had to be postponed due to heavy rain and poor ground conditions in Mairang. The fixture has now been shifted to Shillong’s SSA Stadium and will be played on Tuesday at 6:45PM.
At the SSA Stadium, Nangkiew Irat SC survived a tough battle against Khimusniang SC to register a 2-1 victory. Neblejohn Lyngkhoi opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a stunning strike before Nikelson Bina doubled the lead just before half-time after a rebound from a free-kick.
Khimusniang suffered a major setback when defender Luckyness Khyriem received a direct red card for fouling Dibinroy Nongspung as the last man. Despite being reduced to ten men, the Jowai-based side fought hard and pulled one back through Dawanbiangmi Passah in the 63rd minute after goalkeeper Emerald Dan saved a penalty. However, Khimusniang failed to find the equaliser and bowed out after an impressive campaign.
In Amlarem, defending champions Mawlai SC produced the most dominant performance of the tournament so far by thrashing Thangskai Tiger SC 11-0. Robertson Khongriah starred with a hat-trick while Wadshwa Latoo and Jestibor Mawlong scored braces. Samlang Rympei, Fairming Suting, Kevin Rymbai and Basuklang Bina also got their names on the scoresheet as Mawlai displayed their full strength after returning from their I-League 3 campaign.
Rymbai Shkenshynriah also secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Amlarem SC in Khliehriat. Hesmiki Rymbai netted both goals in the first half to send last season’s semifinalists into the next round.
At Williamnagar, Rangdajied United FC overcame Janepih YSCA 3-1 after extra time in one of the most thrilling matches of the day. Mebannangkiew Thabah gave Rangdajied the lead in the 30th minute, but Edyson Iawphniaw equalised dramatically in stoppage time to force extra time. Rangdajied eventually sealed victory through Ricky Mawlong and Elnathan D Wahlang as Janepih ran out of energy.
Shillong Lajong FC continued their impressive form with a convincing 5-0 win over Mishon SSCC in Wahiajer. Substitute Fridison Wanniang stole the show with a brilliant hat-trick, while Deibormame Tongper and an own goal completed the rout. Lajong have now conceded just one goal in seven matches this season.
In Mawkyrwat, Maram FC kept Garo Hills hopes alive with a narrow 1-0 win against Seng Samla Umdang Pyllun. Tremarchwal Ch Marak scored the decisive goal in the 68th minute to send Maram into the quarterfinals.
The final match of the day saw Nongkseh SSCC overpower Mawphu SC under lights. Hardy Cliff Nongbri scored twice, while Shano Tariang and Chesterpaul Lyngdoh added one each in an emphatic 4-0 victory.