Shillong, Feb 26: Sawmer SC ended their campaign in the Shillong Premier League 2024 with a resounding 6-0 victory over bottom side Ryntih FC at the SSA Stadium at First Ground, Polo, here on Wednesday.
Bickyson Kharkongor (49’, 64’), Aibanraplang Dohling (52’), Rheadolf Nongneng Daloi (72’), Orestar Sad (78’) and Mebanjop Warjri (89’) were the scorers, with all the goals coming in the second half.
The win not only ensured that Sawmer are safe for another season in the local top flight but also meant that ninth-placed Nongthymmai SC and Ryntih (both of which still have two games to go) will finish in the relegation zone and will therefore drop down to the First Division next season.
Victory also lifts Sawmer to seventh place in the standings; they are tied with Nongrim Hills SC on 18 points each but have head-to-head advantage. Nongrim Hills, however, have two matches still to play.
After an erratic first half, Sawmer took the lead early in the second with an unmarked Bickyson taking a low shot that beat Ryntih goalkeeper Derick Khongsit, though he did get a hand to the ball.
The stand-in goalie spilled a cross a few minutes later and Aibanraplang was on hand to take advantage of the rebound. There was nothing that Derick could do to prevent the third goal, which was a scintillating left-footer from Bickyson, again on the right flank.
Bicky then turned provider for substitute Rheadolf to ease one into the net and next it was the turn of Orestar, who struck home a rebound following an Aibanraplang shot that Derick again could not grasp cleanly.
The last goal saw Mebanjop run up the right flank and into the box. He was probably looking to pass the ball to Rheadolf but it ended up in the net, most likely off a Ryntih player.
Sawmer end the season with five wins, three draws and 10 defeats. This happened to be just the second time this season that they kept a clean sheet.
On Thursday, Nongrim Hills will be up against Nangkiew Irat SC at 3pm.
Sawmer SC’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Ryntih FC was not just a statement win but also a defining moment in their Shillong Premier League 2024 campaign. After a season filled with ups and downs, they delivered a commanding performance when it mattered most, securing their place in the local top flight for another year.
While their survival was the primary objective, the win also had a significant impact on the relegation battle, confirming the drop of Nongthymmai SC and Ryntih FC to the First Division next season.
Sawmer’s second-half goal rush showcased their attacking prowess, with Bickyson Kharkongor leading the charge with a brilliant brace and an assist.
The floodgates opened after the break, and Sawmer capitalized on every opportunity, punishing a beleaguered Ryntih defence.
The match also highlighted the struggles of Ryntih, whose defensive frailties and goalkeeping errors proved costly once again.
While this victory propels Sawmer to seventh place, their final standing will depend on Nongrim Hills SC’s remaining fixtures.
Nonetheless, this dominant display will serve as a morale booster for Sawmer, setting the foundation for a stronger campaign next season. As the league nears its conclusion, attention now shifts to the crucial clash between Nongrim Hills and Nangkiew Irat SC, which could further shape the final standings.
