By Our Reporter
Shillong, May 2: Shillong Lajong FC kept their title aspirations alive in the Indian Football League 2025-26 with a commanding 4-0 victory over Chanmari FC at the SSA Stadium here on Saturday evening.
After a competitive opening phase, it was Phrangki Buam who broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time, giving the home side a crucial advantage heading into the interval.
Lajong returned after the break with greater intent and control, steadily tightening their grip on the contest. Tremiki Lamurong doubled the lead in the 69th minute before Everbrightson Mylliempdah added a third eight minutes later. Damaitphang Lyngdoh then put the result beyond doubt with a late strike in the 86th minute to complete a comprehensive win.Chanmari’s task had become significantly harder early in the game when Joel Lalramengmawia was sent off in the 16th minute after picking up a second yellow card, leaving the visitors to play the remainder of the match with ten men.
Lajong coach Birendra Thapa made a few changes to the side that featured against Dempo last week, with Siwel Rymbai returning between the posts, while Jakob Vanlalhimpuia and Abhay Gurung were also included in the starting lineup.
The victory takes Lajong to 21 points, keeping them within touching distance of leaders Diamond Harbour FC, who remain four points ahead with a game in hand. While the advantage still lies with the table-toppers, Lajong’s emphatic performance ensures they remain firmly in contention as the title race continues to unfold.
And so, under the fading light at the SSA Stadium, Shillong Lajong FC walked off with more than just a convincing victory—they carried with them renewed belief and a sense of purpose that could yet define their season. This was not merely a win built on numbers, but one shaped by control, patience, and the quiet authority of a side that understands what is at stake. The early dismissal tilted the balance, yes, but Lajong still had to seize the moment, and they did so with composure and conviction, turning pressure into dominance as the game wore on.
