By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The second match on Saturday in the SPL proved to be a thriller, as Rangdajied United produced a remarkable comeback by scoring five goals against Langsning FC in less than forty-five minutes at the JN Stadium.
Langsning FC attacked in the first half and scored two goals to take a strong lead against the table toppers.
Enyinnaya Loveday scored an own goal eleven minutes into the game after a cross made by Langsning FC’s Chandam deflected off the former’s body. Later, Enyinnaya was again in the limelight after the referee offered a penalty against him for a handball. Ailad Kynta took the kick and beat the goalkeeper to give Langsning FC a solid 2-0 lead into halftime.
Just as things appeared to be in Langsning’s favour, Rangdajied United released a flurry of goals after the break, with the first one coming from Babatunde in the 49th minute.
Then in the 58th minute, Bhola Prasad scored the equaliser and it was thereafter that the collapse began. A cross was made to Stephanfield who succeeded in pushing the ball past Chandi Das for Langsning’s third goal in the 70th minute. Six minutes later, Babatunde sent a scorcher from outside the box that saw the ball fly past Chandi and into the goal.
Rangdajied United looked a different lot after the break and worked hard to retain possession. Their fifth and final goal was scored after Bansharai sent out a cross to Jeribe who headed the ball into the net, which all but sealed the match.
Earlier, in the first match, Denis Mawphniang helped see Shillong Lajong FC home after producing a goal in the initial half against Lawmali Pyllun SC. After a somewhat slow start, the Reds found form after which they stepped on the gas and had Lawmali Pyllun SC against the wall.
Denis Mawphniang produced a fine through ball in the 30th minute to beat the goalkeeper and place his team ahead in the race. The favourites, however, failed to capitalise on their chances and that prevented them from securing a big lead. The important factor, though, is that Shillong Lajong FC secured three points from this win and that is not likely to adversely affect Coach Bobby Nongbet.
