U-19 I-League NE Zone
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Although they came up against tough opponents on Tuesday, the boys from Shillong Lajong qualified for the final round of the U-19 I-League by beating Royal Wahingdoh 2-0 at the JN Stadium, Polo.
The Lajong juniors have remained unbeaten through all five of their North East Zone matches and, although they have qualified for the final phase, they still have one more inconsequential game to be played against Green Valley FC next week.
Both teams started the first half in enthusiastic fashion with the intention to grab three points.
While a victory for the Reds would secure their place in the final round, a win for Wahingdoh would mean that the qualifying team would only be decided next week.
The junior Royals put pressure on their opponents through the attack of Sushil, Loken and Naoba, but could not penetrate.
Lajong also had their fair share of opportunities with Bipin up at front. Zodingliana and Rupert Nongrum were also in the thick of the action.
Despite the higly energetic play, neither team could take the lead and they went into the break 0-0.
Calamity struck RWFC in the 51st minute when a Rupert shot on goal struck the hand of a defender and the Reds were awarded a penalty.
Nim Dorjee Tamang stepped up and placed the ball neatly past diving goalkeeper Kennio.
Wahingdoh were also hampered in the second session with Loken having to be substituted after picking up an injury during the first 45 minutes.
The Royals displayed some excellent football but could not find their way to a clear chance on goal.
They played attacking football but were then stunned with a second goal for Lajong just minutes from the final whistle.
Lajong earned a corner on the far side in the 86th minute and Hardy Cliff Nongbri rose up to meet the ball, sending it into the net with a glancing header.
That seemed to take the wind out of the Wahingdoh sails and full time was greeted by joyous scenes from the Lajong players and the bench.
SLFC are on top with an unassailable 15 points, while Wahingdoh have nine.
Another dead rubber will be played on Wednesday between Rangdajied United and Green Valley at the JN Stadium at 1:00pm.
Royal Wahingdoh host their next match against Rangdajied United on March 18, while Lajong play at Green Valley on the preceding day.