SHILLONG: A late penalty and some attacking football by Royal Wahingdoh FC was not enough for the defending champions to stop Malki SC consolidate second place in the Shillong Premier League with a 2-1 victory at the JN Stadium, Polo, on Wednesday.
Goals by Samson Nongrum and Man-of-the-Match Devinroy Nongspung saw Wahingdoh slip to their second defeat in a row, despite a 79th minute Seityasen Singh penalty.
Malki’s consistency in the SPL was evident in the way they took control of the game despite overcoming a few hiccups midway through the game.
The azure-clad team took an early fifth minute lead when striker Nongrum took a long-range shot that sailed into the net, leaving Wahingdoh keeper Karma Lepcha in a helpless position.
The first half belonged to Malki as they created several chances with their two strikers finding themselves in the open on a number of occasions.
Wahingdoh came into the second half showing signs of promise until Nongspung swung into action by taking advantage of a mix-up inside the box before nimbly directing the ball at the goal for a 2-0 lead.
This goal put Nongspung at the top of this season’s scorers’ list, along with Langsning’s Kasomwoshi; both have seven goals, although the official SPL list has not been released.
RWFC earned a 79th minute penalty, which was converted by forward Seityasen, giving them hope of a comeback.
But, several near misses later, the match ended without further goals and Malki walked home with a close yet comprehensive win.
Malki now have 20 points, second only to Rangdajied United, who have 27. RWFC remain in third place with 16, with Langsning one point behind.
On Thursday, MLP will take on Nangkiew Irat SC at 2:45pm at the JN Sports Complex, Polo.
ARC beat Mawkriah West 4-0 in 3rd Division
Meanwhile, in the Third Division, Assam Regimental Centre handed Mawkhriah West a 4-0 thrashing at Polo Grounds.
ARC’s goal-scorers were Sailothanga Sailo (18th minute), Francis Zonuntluanga (54th), C Lalmalsawma (58th), and M Boicha Singh (68th).
On Thursday, Mawkhar will go up against Qualapaty at 1pm at Polo Grounds.