Shillong, August 21: Nangkiew Irat scripted history in the Shillong Premier League (SPL) 2025 by defeating two-time champions Mawlai 2-0 at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, here on Thursday.
Goals from Himanshu Patil (14’) and Ronaldkydon L Nonglait (68’) sealed the memorable win, which propelled Nangkiew Irat to the top of the provisional standings with six points from two matches.
The defeat was a rare one for Mawlai, who have been dominant since their return to the SPL in 2022. Not only was this their first-ever loss to Nangkiew Irat, but it was also just their fourth defeat in three years. Remarkably, it was only the second time in the same period that they failed to score in a league match.
Both teams came into the fixture with opening-day wins—Mawlai thrashing Sawmer 6-2, while Nangkiew Irat overcame Nongrim Hills 3-1.
The Match
Mawlai began with their trademark fast-paced game but Nangkiew Irat responded with a deliberate, measured approach. That strategy unsettled the champions and paid off when a lapse in concentration allowed Jefferson Pakyntein to swing in a cross for Himanshu, who made no mistake with a precise header in the 14th minute.
In the second half, another error cost Mawlai dearly. Substitute Dameki Khongstia misplaced a pass, allowing Raikutshisha Buam to release Ronaldkydon, who struck a low left-footer past goalkeeper Lambhamiki Lamare in the 68th minute.
Despite trailing by two goals, Mawlai showed resilience but lacked sharpness in the final third against Nangkiew Irat’s rock-solid defence marshalled by veterans Dibinroy Nongspung—a former Mawlai player—and Restom Khriam.
Mawlai still had chances, with Balajied Syiemlieh heading narrowly wide, Robertson Khongriah testing goalkeeper Surjay Kumar Pariyar after a rare error, and Ricky Chyne’s header forcing a diving save. However, they were unable to find the breakthrough.
Team Outlook
Mawlai appeared to miss the physical presence of striker Donlad Diengdoh, who moved to Langsning this season. Nangkiew Irat, meanwhile, benefited from retaining their 2024 core while strengthening with key signings, including Dibinroy, Raikutshisha, and striker Himanshu Patil, who recently topped the scoring charts in the Maharashtra Senior Men’s League.
With this result, Nangkiew Irat announced themselves as serious contenders in SPL 2025.
Next Fixture
The league continues on Friday, with defending champions Shillong Lajong set to take on Malki at 4:30 PM.
