SHILLONG, OCT 23: Nongkseh Sport & Cultural Club began their I-League 3 campaign in impressive fashion, defeating Kuppuraj FC 4–1 at the SSA Football Stadium on Thursday evening, with a dominant second-half display securing all three points.
Owanijuh Pajuh opened the scoring in the 38th minute before Nongkseh captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri struck twice in the 50th and 55th minutes. Ieitlang Syiemlieh added the fourth goal in the 58th minute, while Jaymz Bryan Pale scored a late consolation for Kuppuraj in the 88th minute.
The match began on an even note, with both teams looking for openings and attempting shots on goal. However, Nongkseh gradually gained momentum after the opening 15 minutes, settling into the contest and creating opportunities to attack.
Nongkseh had an early attempt on target within the first five minutes, but the Kuppuraj goalkeeper was equal to the effort.
Captain Hardy Nongbri played a key role in driving the home side’s attack, while a corner in the 32nd minute created another opportunity. Kynsailang, however, headed the ball over the crossbar.
The breakthrough arrived in the 38th minute when Kynsailang provided an excellent assist for Nongkseh’s latest signing, Owanijuh Pajuh, who fired home from the edge of the penalty area to give the hosts a 1–0 lead.
Kuppuraj attempted to respond before half-time, winning a corner that was comfortably dealt with by the Nongkseh defence. Nongkseh came close to extending their advantage in the 44th minute when Hamedamanbha tried his luck, but his effort went over the crossbar.
Nongkseh went into the break with a slender 1–0 advantage, but the second half proved decisive.
Hardy Nongbri doubled the lead in the 50th minute, giving Nongkseh an ideal start after the restart. The captain struck again five minutes later, completing his brace and extending the hosts’ advantage to 3–0.
Nongkseh continued to capitalise on their attacking momentum, with Ieitlang Syiemlieh finding the net in the 58th minute to make it 4–0. The quick succession of three second-half goals left Kuppuraj facing an uphill battle.
With a comfortable four-goal cushion, Nongkseh made five substitutions to give key players a rest ahead of their upcoming fixtures. Substitute Shano Tariang attempted to add to the tally with several long-range efforts, but the Kuppuraj goalkeeper kept him at bay, while other attempts went off target.
Kuppuraj eventually pulled one back in the 88th minute through Jaymz Bryan Pale following a defensive mix-up. Kynsailang Khongsit attempted to play the ball back to goalkeeper Wanteilang Malngiang, but Pale intercepted the pass before the goalkeeper could regain control. The forward then outmanoeuvred Malngiang and found the net to reduce the deficit to 4–1.
The late goal provided some consolation for Kuppuraj, but there was insufficient time to mount a comeback. Nongkseh pushed forward again during stoppage time, creating further attempts on goal, but the visitors’ defence held firm.
The I-League 3 competition continues on October 24, with Kuppuraj FC facing Lakecity FC at 9 am, followed by Nongkseh S&CC taking on Chhaygaon FC at 5 pm.