Shillong, May 22: Nongkseh SSCC and Shillong Lajong FC secured the two semifinal spots from Group A of the Meghalaya State League after winning their respective quarterfinal league stage matches on Thursday.
While Nongkseh cruised to a 4-1 victory over bottom-placed Rangdajied United FC, Shillong Lajong edged defending champions Mawlai SC 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter.
A 72nd-minute strike from Fridison Wanniang proved decisive for Lajong, with the victory not only sealing their place in the semifinals but also ending Mawlai’s hopes of progressing further in the competition.
In the standings, Nongkseh lead Group A with 11 points, followed by Lajong with 10, while Mawlai remain on 7 points. Rangdajied are yet to open their account. Although one round of matches still remains, Mawlai can no longer finish in the top two due to their inferior head-to-head record against Lajong, having lost both meetings.
Mawlai struggled for composure in defence during the first half but managed to survive sustained pressure, thanks largely to goalkeeper Lambhamiki Lamare, who was called into action repeatedly.
Lajong threatened as early as the opening minute when Deibormame Tongper forced a save with a powerful effort on target. Fridison Wanniang also tested the Mawlai custodian in the 20th minute, while Mawlai came close themselves in the 12th minute when Fairming Suting struck the woodwork.
Both teams were missing key players due to suspensions, but Lajong adapted better to the situation. Coach Bobby L Nongbet introduced Emanbha Marbaniang in the second half, and the substitute made an immediate impact by setting up Fridison for a thunderous left-footed winner.
Earlier in the day, Nongkseh dominated Rangdajied after a balanced first half. Banpynkhrawnam Nongkhlaw opened the scoring in the 30th minute with his first goal of the tournament before Nongkseh took complete control after the break.
Khrawkupar Jana struck twice in quick succession in the 56th and 63rd minutes, with Sheen Sohktung scoring in between in the 59th minute to put the game beyond Rangdajied’s reach.
Rangdajied managed a consolation goal in the 76th minute through Pasborlang Khonglikong, who beat Nongkseh goalkeeper Guidle Syiemlieh on the run.
Group B action will continue on Friday, with Nangkiew Irat SC taking on Maram FC at 2pm. Nangkiew had won the reverse fixture 7-1.
Later at 6pm, Langsning FC will face Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC after Langsning had claimed a 3-0 victory in the earlier meeting between the two sides.
