Shillong, August 18: Rangdajied United held reigning champions Shillong Lajong to a goalless draw in an entertaining Shillong Premier League 2025 encounter at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, today.
Both sides produced fast, end-to-end football but were left frustrated after missing several scoring chances. This was the second draw of the season, and the first without a goal.
Lajong, who had beaten Rangdajied twice in SPL 2024 as well as in the Meghalaya State League and Durand Cup, struggled in attack without last season’s top scorer Deibormame Tongper, along with key contributors Yohaan Benjamin and Babysunday Marngar. Rangdajied, meanwhile, sorely missed the finishing of Owanijuh Pajuh.
Despite the absences, both teams had opportunities. Lajong were denied twice by the woodwork, while Rangdajied’s Manbhakupar Iawphniaw saw a free-kick go wide and later had a shot saved by SLFC goalkeeper Wanteilang Malngiang, who also reacted well to block Menangpyndap Khongjee’s rebound effort. Lajong’s Firstborn Khongsit and Ricky Kharkongor also came close, sending efforts just over the bar in the second half.
With the first round now complete, Mawlai, Nangkiew Irat, and Malki lead the table with 3 points each, while Langsning, Mylliem, Rangdajied, and Lajong sit on 1 point apiece. Nongrim Hills, Sawmer, and Laitkor are yet to open their account.
The next SPL fixture will see Nongrim Hills take on Sawmer on Wednesday at 4:30 pm. Both teams will be desperate to bounce back after opening defeats.
