By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 8: Shillong Lajong FC produced an impressive second-half comeback to defeat Real Kashmir FC 2–1 in an I-League encounter, earning their first full three points of the campaign.
Playing in front of a lively home crowd at the SSA Stadium, Polo Ground, the hosts showed resilience after conceding early before turning the match around with two crucial goals.
The visitors drew first blood in the 20th minute when Seiminlen Haokip found the back of the net to give Real Kashmir the lead. The goal momentarily silenced the home supporters and put Lajong on the back foot during the opening stages of the contest.
However, the Reds gradually settled into the match and began to create chances as the first half progressed. Their persistence paid off in the 40th minute when Phrangki Buam produced a powerful strike to level the score. The equaliser injected fresh energy into the home side and ensured the teams went into the break tied at 1–1.Buoyed by the momentum, Shillong Lajong returned after halftime with renewed intent and continued to press forward in search of the winning goal. Their attacking efforts were rewarded in the 57th minute when captain Kenstar Kharshong rose to the occasion, scoring the decisive goal to complete the comeback and put his team ahead.
After taking the lead, Lajong showed composure and determination to protect their advantage. The defence held firm in the closing stages, successfully containing the visitors’ attempts to find an equaliser and securing a hard-fought victory.The win marks an important early-season result for Shillong Lajong, who are looking to build momentum in the league. With the three points from the match, the team moved up to second place in the standings with four points from two matches.
