Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: Nongkseh SSCC captured the fifth Meghalaya State League title on Friday, overcoming a first-half deficit to defeat Langsning FC 2-1 at the SSA Stadium. In their debut season, the winners completed a remarkable campaign before a sold-out crowd, securing the championship trophy and a cash prize of Rs 8 lakh.
Langsning FC took the lead just before halftime following an own goal by Banpynkhrawnam Nongkhlaw. Nongkseh surged back after the interval, with captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri leveling the score in the 61st minute from a Sheen Sohktung delivery. Shano Tariang sealed the comeback seven minutes later, capitalizing on a swift counterattack to secure the historic win.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma presented the awards during the closing ceremony, which was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla. Reflecting on the final, Chief Minister Sangma described it as a, "Spectacular match between Nongkseh SSCC and Langsning FC this evening, an electrifying display of football, rivalry, and true sportsmanship."
This year’s tournament was the most expansive in league history, featuring 33 teams across 139 matches. Organized by the Meghalaya Football Association, the event adhered to All India Football Federation standards, granting the champions a pathway to the I-League 3. Nongkseh's Kitboklang Pale received individual honors as the player of the tournament, while runners-up Langsning earned Rs 5 lakh.
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