SHILLONG, Feb 8: Shillong Lajong rode Ronney Wilson’s brace to create a stir in the I-League 2024-25 as they edged past the high-flying Namdhari FC 3-2 in a dramatic match at the SSA Stadium, on Saturday, February 8, 2025.
Lajong’s victory, which also saw an early strike from Figo Syndai, effectively snapped Namdhari’s impressive nine-game unbeaten streak. Despite efforts from Francis Addo, who also scored twice for Namdhari, the hosts managed to avenge their 5-2 defeat to the same opponents earlier in the season.Namdhari FC, positioned second in the league, were favourites heading into the game, having only suffered two losses prior to this encounter. Their last defeat was against Dempo SC on December 3.
In contrast, Lajong had suffered a loss to Real Kashmir in their last match but showed no signs of intimidation. They took the game to Namdhari with confidence and determination and the win pushed them to the sixth spot in the standings with 19 points from 13 matches. Namdhari failed to leapfrog Churchill Brothers to the top spot and are second with 24 points from 13 matches.
The match commenced with high intensity as Lajong seized the early advantage and stunned the visitors with a spectacular goal. Just seven minutes into the game, Damaitphang Lyngdoh’s masterful pass found Figo Syndai, who fired a precise shot into the top corner of the near post.Lajong controlled much of the first half, with their midfield trio of Lyngdoh, Syndai, and Hardy Cliff Nongbri effectively breaking down Namdhari’s defence with swift and intelligent passing. (Agencies)
