Shillong, May 14: Nangkiew Irat SC’s impressive seven-match winning streak came to an end after they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC in their Group B encounter of the Super 8 stage of the 5th Meghalaya State League (MSL 5) on Thursday.
In the other Group B fixture of the day, Langsning FC continued their dominant form with a resounding 7-0 victory over Maram FC to register their eighth consecutive win of the tournament.
Nangkiew Irat took the lead in the 39th minute through Jefferson Pakyntein after a defensive mix-up between the Rymbai Shkenshynriah goalkeeper and defender allowed him a clear opportunity in front of goal.
However, the East Jaintia Hills side responded strongly in the second half with two quick strikes in the span of two minutes. Skilful Tariang restored parity in the 53rd minute with a composed finish beyond goalkeeper Emerald Dan before Hesmiki Rymbai netted the winner in the 55th minute after capitalising on a chipped ball into the box as the Nangkiew Irat custodian rushed off his line.
The goal also took Hesmiki’s tally to eight in the tournament, making him the highest scorer for his team so far.
Meanwhile, Langsning FC produced another commanding display against Maram FC. Dajiedlang Wanshnong opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a free-kick before Andy Joey Laloo doubled the advantage five minutes later with a headed effort.
Samuel Phawa then struck just before halftime in stoppage time and added his second shortly after the restart in the 51st minute.
Tournament top scorer Nelson Rymbai continued his prolific run by scoring twice more in the 54th and 69th minutes, with the latter coming from the penalty spot. Nelson has now scored 17 goals in the competition and has found the net in every one of Langsning’s eight matches.
Dajiedlang completed the rout with his second goal in the 80th minute as Maram FC endured a difficult start to the Super 8 stage.
The action will shift to Group A on Friday at the MFA Ground, where Rangdajied United FC will take on Nongkseh SSCC at 11am, followed by defending champions Mawlai SC facing Shillong Lajong FC at 3pm.
