By Our Reporter
Shillong, Dec 14: It promised much and the final of the SSA Champions Cup here on Saturday certainly delivered as Nongkseh overturned a one goal deficit to beat Shillong Lajong 2-1 in a game that will be remembered for a long time, perhaps as the moment that Nongkseh truly announced themselves as a team capable of challenging – and beating – the very best in Meghalaya.
The spectators at the SSA Stadium lapped up the drama of an extra time victory. At least 12,000 fans packed themselves into every available space and supported their favourite teams to the hilt.
Babysunday Marngar (27’) scored first for Lajong, courtesy a mistake from Banpynkhrawnam Nongkhlaw, whose attempt at a clearance sent the ball straight to Baby’s feet. Although Nongkseh strove for an equaliser, it looked like they were to be denied, only for Kynsaibor Lhuid (90’+4) to pluck a goal out of nowhere. That necessitated extra time and here again the goal came right at the very end, with Hardy Cliff Nongbri (120’) producing the winner.
Lajong seemed to be able to read Nongkseh like a book in the first half – their level of anticipation was unmatched and they could predict almost every move by their opponents.
What changed things was the introduction of Shano Tariang in the second half by Nongkseh coach Richard Nongneng. Shano was not seen for several games before – probably due for fitness reasons – but his team needed him yesterday and his assertive presence enabled Nongkseh to control the midfield and led to more attempts being made on goal. It was only the brilliance of Wanteilang Malngiang that kept Lajong’s nose out in front, with the goalkeeper producing at least three top notch saves to keep Nongkseh at bay.
In the middle of eight minutes of stoppage time Kynsaibor equalised. He has a way of producing goals at crucial moments and his strike yesterday, scored in front of the stand that was reserved for Nongkseh’s fans, took the game to extra time.
Here Nongkseh could have taken the lead through Khrawkupar Jana but he hooked the ball into the gallery from close. Hardy was also denied by a diving Wanteilang.
