Shillong: Langsning FC were crowned champions of the Shillong Premier League Super Division after defeating Shillong Lajong 1-0 in the finals at the SSA Stadium in Polo Ground on Friday.
It was a heartbreaking defeat for Shillong Lajong after being at the top of the table during the league stage. The team had also played their I-League match on Thursday against East Bengal and all eleven of the top players were rested for Friday’s SPL finals.
Earlier, Langsning started the match aggressively and shared the majority of the possession on the field.
They took the lead in the 16th minute of the game when Kitbok Pale scored from a free kick.
The Lajong youngsters tried to get back into the game in the second half of the match. In the 50th minute, Donboklang’s shot which was on target went straight to goalkeeper Frolicson Dkhar.
Later on, Langsning came close to doubling their lead but Lajong goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa prevented those shots from going inside the net in an amazing display of skill and determination. In the 73rd minute, Lajong’s Sheen Sohktung almost levelled the scoreline but the forward’s header went over the crossbar.
In the end, the referee blew the final whistle and handed Langsning the win and the Shillong Premier League title.
The Lajong youngsters had put up a brave performance but will have to look forward to next year as the focus shifts back to the ongoing I-league season.
The Lajong squad will play three away matches against Indian Arrows on November 5 at 5pm, Gokulam Kerala on November 11 at 5pm and Churchill Brothers on November 15 at 7:30pm. All the matches will telecast live on Star Sports.
