Shillong, Sept 24: Malki SC secured a crucial 1-0 win over Nongrim Hills in the Shillong Premier League 2025 at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, on Wednesday.

The match — the last fixture of Round 5 — had originally been slated for 12 September but was postponed due to heavy rain and waterlogging of the pitch. It was also the first SPL game after a break of more than a week, and both teams showed early signs of rust, with promising opportunities failing to translate into real chances on goal.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 68th minute when Ribanshan Marpna produced a moment of brilliance, curling a left-footed shot from just inside the box into the back of the net, leaving Nongrim Hills goalkeeper Ebenson Warbah with no chance.

Going behind prompted Nongrim Hills to push forward in search of an equaliser, but Malki’s defence held firm to secure all three points. The result handed Nongrim Hills their fourth defeat in five outings, leaving them with just a single point this season — a 2-2 draw with Laitkor.

For Malki, the victory was a much-needed boost after three consecutive defeats. They jumped three places in the standings to sixth on 6 points, tied with Sawmer but ahead on goal difference (-10 to -11). Malki had previously beaten Laitkor 1-0 in their season opener.

The win also pushed Rangdajied United into the relegation zone. Rangdajied and Mylliem are level on 5 points, but Mylliem edge them out on goal difference (-3 to -4).

Upcoming Fixture:
Fifth-placed Laitkor will face Rangdajied United tomorrow at 3:30 PM in what could be a crucial clash in the fight to avoid relegation.