Shillong, Feb 28: Meghalaya have no chance of qualifying for the quarterfinals of the 77th National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2023-24 after they played out a goalless draw against Goa in their penultimate Group A match of the final round in Itanagar this evening.
Out of the previous three fixtures, last year’s Santosh Trophy runners-up Meghalaya had only been able to secure 1 point thanks to a draw with Kerala. Before today Goa had already secured their place in the quarters, while Meghalaya had to win in order to continue to threaten Assam.
Coach Khlain Pyrkhat Syiemlieh made two changes to the starting line-up. Lionel Rymmei came back in place of Siwel Rymbai in goal, while Banskhemlang Mawlong also took the place of Overkindness Lyngdoh Mawnai.
Meghalaya performed fairly well in the first half, with Sheen Sohktung firing in a couple of attempts, though both of these went straight to the goalkeeper. Lionel fumbled a ball into the box early on, which could have led to Goa going in front but he managed to recover in time.
In the second half it was Goa who were looking the more threatening, with numerous chances created and wasted. Although it wasn’t their finest performance, it was enough to keep their unbeaten streak going.
The earlier matches in the day saw Services and Kerala qualify for the quarterfinal by defeating Assam and Arunachal Pradesh respectively, with each game ending 2-0.
Meghalaya will next play hosts Arunachal Pradesh on 1st March at 7PM. That match is just for pride and to avoid the group’s wooden spoon.
Meghalaya’s squad today:
Lionel Rymmei (GK), Wanboklang Lyngkhoi, Donborlang Nongkynrih, Dawanplielad Myrchiang, Banskhemlang Mawlong (sub Overkindness L Mawnai 68′), Damonlang Pathaw, Dawanchwa Challam (sub Dameki Khongstia 73′), Nikelson Bina (sub Chesterpaul Lyngdoh 53′), Kitboklang Pale (sub Robert Khongjoh 68′), Sheen Sohktung, Nelson Rymbai (sub Shaiborlang Kharpan 68′)
