By Our Reporter
Shillong, April 7: Dempo Sports Club produced a clinical performance to secure their first win of the 
(IFL) 2025-26 season, defeating Shillong Lajong FC 3-0 at the PJN Stadium on Tuesday.
Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, Shillong Lajong struggled to make it count in the final third, coming up against a well-organised Dempo side that combined defensive discipline with sharp finishing.
The hosts wasted little time in asserting control. Samir Naik’s men began brightly and found the breakthrough as early as the sixth minute.
A defensive lapse from Lajong saw Rudra Ved’s clearance loop into a dangerous area, where Marcus Joseph reacted quickest. Showing excellent control, he unleashed a left-footed strike to put Dempo ahead.
Dempo doubled their advantage in the 24th minute, capitalising on another moment of uncertainty in the Lajong defence.
A cross from Saiesh Bagkar caused confusion, and goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai’s hesitation proved costly as the ball deflected off Kapil Hoble and into the net for 2-0.
Shillong Lajong attempted to mount a response before the break and came closest through Phrangki Buam, whose header was expertly tipped over by Ashish Sibi.
However, Dempo went into half-time firmly in control. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Dempo continuing to press and Shillong struggling to break through.
The game was effectively sealed in the 55th minute after Dempo were awarded a penalty when Rymbai brought down Bagkar inside the box.
Richmond Kwasi Owusu stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, calmly slotting home to make it 3-0.
Lajong continued to push forward in search of a consolation goal, creating a few half-chances through substitutes and set-piece situations, but lacked the cutting edge to trouble the scoreboard.
The victory lifts Dempo to six points and marks a significant boost to their campaign, while Shillong Lajong, despite remaining in fourth place with 11 points, will be left to rue missed opportunities and a lack of finishing in front of goal.
