Shillong, Feb 13: Laitkor SC’s victory today over Umphyrnai SC ensured that both they and Nongrim Hills SC will be promoted to next season’s Shillong Premier League.
Laitkor beat Umphyrnai 2-0 in today’s First Division 2023 match with goals from Ivangel Kharkongor (32′) and Euvasius Mawthoh (85′).
Both Nongrim Hills and Laitkor now have 12 points, with the latter having played an extra match. The two are set to face off in the season-ender on 24th February.
The First Division is played on a single leg basis in a pure league format and there are, therefore, no semifinals or final.
Mylliem and Malki are the only other teams who can reach 12 points. Only one can get there, however, as they are set to take on each other on 21st February.
However, when two teams are tied on points in SSA tournaments, head-to-head is considered before goal difference. Nongrim and Laitkor have both defeated Mylliem and Malki this season, meaning that the latter pair cannot finish the tournament in the top two.
Nevertheless, the battle for the First Division title is still alive and will go down to the last match. There is also the matter of relegation, with Umphyrnai and Mawkhar SC in danger of the drop, though they still have scope to fight their way out.
The next fixture is scheduled for 15th February between Mylliem and Mawkhar at 2:45PM.