Shillong, August 22: Reigning champions Shillong Lajong stamped their authority on the Shillong Premier League 2025 with a commanding 5-0 victory over Malki SC at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, here today.

Lajong, who were held to a goalless draw in their opener against Rangdajied United, came out hungry to register their first win of the season. Once Mebannangkiew Thabah broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, the Reds never looked back. Goals followed from Emanbha Marbaniang (39’, 51’), Ribor L. Lyngkhoi (47’), and Firstborn Khongsit (84’) as the defending champions delivered a masterclass performance.

Malki, who had edged past Laitkor 1-0 in their first match, found themselves overwhelmed by Lajong’s relentless pressing and sharp finishing. Goalkeeper Franklin Surong, the hero of their previous outing, was called into action early and made three good saves, but he could do little to stop the waves of attacks that followed.

The opener came when a corner fell to Mebanaibok Kharbudnah, whose shot was heading wide until Mebannangkiew stretched to steer it into the net. Soon after, the striker rattled the upright and the rebound was turned in by Emanbha to double the advantage.

Malki’s lone real chance of the match came through Fashioning Syngkli, who broke free on a solo run but was forced wide by SLFC goalkeeper Wanteilang Malngiang. With the angle against him, his shot only found the roof of the net.

The second half began with more punishment for Malki, as Ribor converted a cross with a firm strike in the 47th minute, before Emanbha added his second with a header four minutes later. Substitutions from both sides followed, but the Reds remained in control and capped the victory with Khongsit’s header from a corner in the 84th minute.

The win lifts Lajong to second in the table with 4 points, trailing leaders Nangkiew Irat on 6. Malki sit mid-table on 3 points, alongside Sawmer and Mawlai.

Tomorrow’s marquee fixture will see giants Langsning and Rangdajied United clash at 4:30 pm.