Kharang triumph in thrilling SSA Fourth Division Final, secure victory in penalty shootout against Iatyllilang
By Our Reporter
Shillong, Nov 4: The Shillong Sports Association’s U-20 Fourth Division 2023 season reached an exhilarating climax today as Kharang SC clinched the title in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Iatyllilang SC at the First Ground, Polo.
The epic final, lasting a full 70 minutes, concluded with a 1-1 draw, forcing extra time to be played. However, even the added period couldn’t separate the two evenly matched teams, ultimately leading to a penalty shootout, where Kharang emerged victorious with a 5-4 scoreline.The contest had a slow start, with the first half ending goalless but filled with intense action. It was in the second half that the excitement unfolded. Kharang’s star striker, Laban Taro, made a significant impact by delivering a spectacular left-footed shot into the back of the net from just inside the opposition box in the 55th minute.
However, the lead didn’t last long. A mere four minutes later, Bashaiphang Nongspung capitalized on a chance for Iatyllilang, seizing the opportunity after his team earned a corner kick. The ball into the box eluded Kharang’s goalkeeper, allowing Nongspung to pounce and slot the ball high into the net, marking his first goal of the season.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Kharang’s composure and precision came to the forefront as they successfully converted all five of their kicks from the spot. Iatyllilang’s fate was sealed with a miss that sailed high above the crossbar, relegating them to the second position.Kharang was duly rewarded for their victory, receiving a prize of Rs 30,000 as champions, while Iatyllilang took home Rs 15,000 as runners-up. Additionally, both teams, along with the two losing semifinalists, Lamlynti FC of Madanlyngkhi and Mawkriah West SC, earned promotion to the Third Division.
