Shillong, October 1: Shillong Lajong FC returned to the top of the provisional Shillong Premier League (SPL) 2026 standings after defeating defending champions Langsning FC 2-0 at the SSA Stadium on Thursday, dealing a significant blow to Langsning’s title defence.

Goals from Iohborlang L. Lyngkhoi in the 45th minute and Freddy Jyrwa in the 80th minute secured all three points for Lajong in a closely contested encounter witnessed by a large crowd.

With the victory, Lajong moved to 17 points from eight matches, while Langsning slipped to second place with 16 points from eight games. Mawlai FC, with 15 points from seven matches, remain firmly in contention for the title, while Nongkseh FC occupy fourth place with 13 points from seven games.

Langsning still have a match against Nongkseh remaining, but their chances of retaining the title now depend partly on results elsewhere.

The encounter was marked by high intensity, physical challenges and several scoring opportunities for both sides. Early in the match, a defensive error from Langsning nearly allowed Lajong to take the lead, but goalkeeper Rajat Paul Lyngdoh rushed out to block Colinsalmon Lyngdoh’s attempt.

Freddy Jyrwa remained influential throughout the match, creating opportunities for his teammates. One promising move saw him get past Rajat Paul, but Wilbert Marbaniang failed to connect with the resulting pass at the far post.

Lajong came close to scoring in the 42nd minute when Riborlang L. Lyngkhoi struck the crossbar. Three minutes later, Iohborlang L. Lyngkhoi converted a free-kick that clipped the upright before finding the net, giving Lajong a 1-0 lead at half-time.

Langsning sought an immediate response after the restart, with Kyrmenskhem Mukhim testing Lajong goalkeeper Lakpa Lama within the opening minute of the second half. However, Lama was equal to the effort.

The defending champions continued to create chances, but Samuel Phawa, Mebanshngain Kurkalang and Syed Ahmed failed to convert their opportunities.

At the other end, Badondor Marbaniang produced a dangerous effort, forcing Rajat Paul to dive and push the ball onto the woodwork.

Lajong eventually doubled their advantage in the 80th minute after capitalising on another defensive lapse. Freddy Jyrwa received the ball following a passing move inside the Langsning defence and fired towards goal. Although Rajat Paul managed to get a hand to the shot, the ball crossed the line to make it 2-0.

Langsning continued to search for a way back into the match. Donlad Diengdoh found space inside the penalty area, but Lakpa Lama denied him with a save. Samuel Phawa later struck the crossbar with a powerful left-footed effort, while Richie Kharbani narrowly missed the target shortly before the final whistle.

The result leaves the SPL title race finely balanced, with Lajong, Langsning and Mawlai separated by just two points at the top of the standings.

Attention now turns to Friday’s fixture, where Mawlai FC will face Sawmer SC at 3 pm. Mawlai will look to capitalise on Langsning’s defeat and strengthen their title challenge, while seventh-placed Sawmer will aim to cause an upset.