Shillong: An injury time equaliser helped Shillong Lajong FC rescue a point in their last away game of the season against Mumbai FC at the Cooperage Ground in Mumbai on Sunday.
Mumbai FC kicked off the match in a brilliant fashion and took the lead in only the 2nd minute of the game courtesy a thumping shot from the right by Victorino.
Lajong sorely missed the services of I-League top scorer Dipanda Dicka due to injury and youngster Redeem Tlang who was suspended after accumulating 4 yellow cards in the season.
The visitors were strong in the midfield in the first half, but could not create enough chances to trouble the defence. Lajong youngster Isaac almost levelled the score with his free kick in the 27th minute but Mumbai goalkeeper Kattimani dived to the right to clear the ball.
When the second half of the match began, Lajong brought on Samuel Lalmuanpuia in place of Rocus Lamare and started getting a grip on the match. Yuta Kinowaki was very unlucky not to score in the 60th minute after finding himself free inside the box but his shot hit the bar. A couple of minutes, Siam Hangal of Mumbai took a shot from outside the box which was brilliantly parried away by Lajong goalie Vishal Kaith.
The hosts were looking to seal the game but Yuta Kinowaki spoiled their party with a late equaliser in the 91st minute.
Kinowaki found some space on the edge of the box and took a half volley shot towards the top left corner resulting in a much-needed goal for Lajong.
Isaac Vanmalsawma was adjudged the Hero of the Match for his incredible display in the game.
With another point added to their total, the Reds will return to Shillong to prepare for their clash against Aizawl FC on April 30 at 7pm in a crucial North East derby.
