Shillong, Aug 20: Super substitute Khainkupar Iawphniaw came off the bench to score a late brace and seal a thrilling 4-2 victory for Sawmer against Nongrim Hills in Match No. 6 of the Shillong Premier League 2025 at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, here today.

Sawmer twice took the lead through Diego Khyriem (36’) and Khrawkupar Tamu (51’) but Nongrim Hills hit back on both occasions via Bankitboklang Nongrum (43’) and Banpynkmenlang Kharsati (76’). With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Khainkupar struck in the 80th and 85th minutes, ensuring Sawmer’s first win of the season.

Both teams had lost their opening fixtures — Sawmer were beaten 6-2 by Mawlai, while Nongrim Hills fell 3-1 to Nangkiew Irat — making today’s clash a crucial one at the bottom of the table.

The Match

Sawmer started brightly, creating several early chances before Diego, last season’s top scorer, broke the deadlock with a superbly controlled strike off a bouncing ball. Nongrim Hills captain Bankit equalised just before the break with a sublime left-footed effort from the edge of the box.

In the second half, Sawmer regained the lead when Orestar Sad’s corner was met by Khrawkupar’s strong header. Nongrim Hills pressed hard and, after a couple of missed opportunities, Banpynkmenlang bundled in the equaliser from a set-piece in the 76th minute.

Just when the game looked finely poised, Khainkupar’s introduction changed everything. Using his fresh legs and pace, he outran the defence twice in the space of five minutes to slot home two decisive goals, sparking jubilation among Sawmer supporters.

Points Table Impact

With this result, Sawmer climbed into the top half of the SPL 2025 table, while Nongrim Hills slipped to bottom place after two successive defeats.

Tomorrow’s fixture promises another high-voltage clash as Mawlai take on Nangkiew Irat at 4:30 PM at Polo Ground.