Shillong, Aug 27: Shillong Lajong handed Nongkseh their first defeat in a Shillong Sports Association competition since November 2024, edging them 1-0 in the Shillong Premier League 2026 at the SSA Stadium here this evening.
Lalmuansanga scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 55th minute to bring an end to Nongkseh’s remarkable unbeaten run of almost two years.
Shillong Lajong had also defeated Nongkseh in the Durand Cup last month, although the club fields a different squad in national-level competitions. In local leagues, Nongkseh had enjoyed the upper hand, winning two and drawing two of their previous meetings with Lajong.
Nongkseh made a shaky start to the second half, committing a couple of uncharacteristic fouls that saw Hamedamanbha Wahlang and Arlangky Nongsiej booked. Their problems worsened when a handball inside the box handed Lajong a penalty.
Lalmuansanga calmly placed his spot-kick to the left of Nongkseh goalkeeper Daraphun Talang. The keeper guessed correctly but was unable to get a hand to the well-placed effort.
Lajong goalkeeper Banshanskhem Kharsyntiew played an important role in keeping his side ahead. In the 17th minute, he fumbled a shot from Dawanchwa Challam, and Shano Tariang almost pounced on the loose ball, but Lajong managed to clear the danger. Banshanskhem otherwise had an excellent outing and Lajong remain yet to concede a goal after three rounds of the SPL.
Nongkseh also survived a scare in the 36th minute when Lajong launched a counterattack. Ricky Kharkongor raced onto a long ball with only Daraphun between him and goal, but the Nongkseh goalkeeper got there first to clear.
The match remained intense, with Nongkseh looking the more compact side and appearing to have a clear plan, although their finishing and execution let them down.
Nongkseh pushed forward in search of an equaliser after falling behind, leaving themselves somewhat exposed at the back. Lajong, however, failed to make the most of several opportunities, with Deibormame Tongper notably missing from close range.
The best chance for a second goal came in the 82nd minute. Rimankhraw Kharumnuid carried the ball through the centre before releasing Deibor on the right. Deibor worked his way into a dangerous position, but desperate defending from Nongkseh prevented Lajong from adding to their lead.
After three rounds, Mawlai, Meghalaya Police and Shillong Lajong are all on seven points. Mawlai lead the standings on goal difference at +6, followed by Meghalaya Police (+3) and Shillong Lajong (+2).
On Friday, eighth-placed Laitkor, who have three points, will take on defending champions Langsning, currently fourth with six points, at 3:40pm.
