Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Shillong Lajong surged to the top of the Shillong Premier League 2026 table on September 24. They shut down Laitkor 3-0 at the SSA Stadium. The win moves Lajong to 14 points after seven matches. They now hold a one-point lead over defending champions Langsning, though Langsning keeps a game in hand. Mawlai sits third with 11 points from five matches.
Laitkor never found a rhythm. They struggled to threaten the opposition goal throughout the match. Goalkeeper Deranius Wahlang saved a fourth-minute free-kick from Galbraith Laitmon, but the defense collapsed soon after. In the 27th minute, Samchaphrang Lato pushed the ball forward. A breakdown between defender Richarles Rani and Wahlang allowed Freddy Jyrwa to score the opener.
Laitkor failed to generate pressure. Wadskhem Marbaniang managed one shot on target after the break, but Lajong keeper Lakpa Lama collected it easily. Shaipharlin Nongsiej also squandered a counter-attack opportunity in the box. Lajong exploited gaps in the Laitkor formation to widen the gap. A sharp cross found Rimankhraw Kharumnuid on the flank in the 63rd minute. He took a touch and slammed the ball past the keeper. The third goal came from a penalty kick after officials ruled Riborlang L Lyngkhoi was fouled inside the area. Iohborlang L Lyngkhoi stepped up and converted the spot-kick in the 77th minute.
The league standings remain fluid. Nangkiew Irat faces Mawlai at 3pm on September 25. A win for Mawlai would return them to the top due to their superior goal difference of +7. Regarding the performance, Lajong coach noted the squad's efficiency after the final whistle. The team remains focused on maintaining their momentum as the season progresses.
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