SHILLONG: Malki SC secured a narrow victory over Royal Wahingdoh FC on Saturday, winning by three goals to two, despite a two-goal lead early on. Samson Nongrum was once again the star for Malki as he, along with Michael Bassey stepped on the gas to apply pressure on the Royals.
A cross in the 19th minute by Bassey to Samson allowed the latter to head the ball past Royal Wahingdoh’s keeper Nikhil Bernard. Twelve minutes later, Ronnie took advantage of a lapse in the Royal defence and saw his shot sail into the net to give Malki a 2-0 lead. The 45th minute nearly allowed Malki a third goal after Samson and Kitborlang both missed simple opportunities to score.
With Sena and Kima replacing Batskhem and Masan, Royal Wahingdoh FC came back hard with a change in strategy and in the 58th minute, Bickyson Kharkongor made a clever steal from the keeper before producing a well-placed shot that found its way into the goal. Barely two minutes later, Kima played along a through-ball and chipped the ball over Malki’s custodian Larry for the much-needed equaliser.
However, that did not prevent Malki from attacking and they were finally rewarded in the 69th minute through a steal by Samson who beat Nikhil to ensure a Malki victory.
