SHILLONG: Ten-man Rangdajied United produced an inspiring 3-1 victory over Malki, overcoming their nerves midway through their Shillong Premier League match on Wednesday.
Malki were unable to take advantage of the defensive nature shown by their opponents early on in the second half, after which the I-League promoted side cruised home.
Man of the match Yohei Iwasaki produced a beautiful 81st minute left-foot stunner that saw the ball sail past keeper Larry into the back of the net, thereby sealing the match for Rangdajied.
Earlier, Nagen Tamang opened the account for Rangdajied with an early third minute goal, before the lead was doubled by Sandesh Gadkari’s 19th minute strike.
Gadkari is the leading scorer of the season so far, with three goals.
Ten minutes later, there was a glimmer of hope for Malki when Debinroy Nongspung sent a shot past Rangdajied goalkeeper Surjay Pariyar.
Barely minutes before halftime, skipper Eugeneson received his second caution and was sent off, leaving Rangdajied with only 10 men and a weakened midfield.
However, despite last year’s SPL finalists showing signs of defensive play in the early minutes of the second half, Malki’s attack looked anything but effective as they played the ball mainly around the midfield.
It was Japanese forward Iwasaki’s 81st minute goal that ensured Rangdajied their third straight win in as many matches.
On Thursday, defending champions Royal Wahingdoh will face MLP at 3:15pm at the JN Sports Complex, Polo.
Both teams have yet to register a win in their two matches.
MLP have lost both of their games, while RWFC have drawn one and lost one.