Boithang’s finesse secures victory for Reds

SHILLONG: Shillong Lajong FC registered their first win of the Hero I-League season beating Mumbai FC 1-0 at the JN Stadium here on Sunday.
A second half goal of a free kick taken by Boithang Haokip was enough to secure all three points for the Reds. Boithang struck in the 58th minute curling one in from around 10 yards outside the box to send the 7000 strong crowd into raptures.
Though it was not the best of performances from the Shillong side, their opponents’ lack of zeal and skill to cash in on the several openings they created in each half of the match worked to the hosts’ advantage.
In fact, Khalid Jamil’s boys had two glorious chances in the second half to pull themselves level in quick succession but failed to convert on both occasions.
A visibly happy Thangboi Singto during the post-match press conference lauded the team for playing as a unit. He, however, felt that the Reds could do better.
Rival coach Jamil, meanwhile, had no kind words for his boys. A livid Mumbai coach slammed his troops for “lacking the desire to win.”
“Lajong was not up to the mark but we still managed to lose…we squandered many chances, our players were not prepared for the game,” he said.
Earlier, the game got off to a slow start as both sides struggled to create openings with play restricted to a midfield battle.
Lajong were the first to advance after 13 minutes. Cornell Glen was on the ball just outside the box and shifted it right to Samuel who lobbed the ball in but Sanjiban Ghosh managed to punch it clear.
The away side had an opportunity in the 39th minute when Rafi directed a header on target but an alert Rehenesh was on hand to rescue Lajong.
The lack of coordination among the Lajong strikers was visible on at least two occasions in the first half which ended 0-0.
Lajong brought Uilliams Souza Silva at the start of the second half which the hosts started brightly.
A little later, a foul on Orji outside the Mumbai box handed a free kick to the Reds. Climax Lawrence picked up a yellow card for obstructing the free kick but an undistracted Boithang curled in the shot beautifully for the goal in the 58th minute.
Meanwhile, half-time substitute Uilliams Bomfin was making his presence felt and in the 68th minute, his effort from distance flew just over the bar.
Desperately searching for an equalizer, Mumbai squandered two chances post the 70th minute.
In the best opportunity of the game for the away side, a header crashed off the bar in the 73rd minute before they had an effort cleared off the line seconds later.
Mumbai failed to muster any more chances in the closing stages as Lajong held on to their lead to secure three vital points.
Lajong custodian Rehenesh TP again stood out with his stellar performance.