Shillong, Mar 12: The delayed Shillong Premier League 2023 season will begin on 18th March, according to fixtures shared by the Shillong Sports Association today.
Nongthymmai SC, promoted from the previous First Division, will take on last season’s SPL runners-up Rangdajied United FC in the opening fixture at First Ground, Polo, here. Only the first 12 fixtures were released by the SSA today and all the matches listed will begin at 3PM.
This year’s SPL will only be played over one leg, not the usual two. There will also be no relegation, which could result in some clubs taking things lightly, though there should still be a good fight for the title (and Rs 3 lakh prize money) and the top teams will qualify for the more lucrative Meghalaya State League (either directly or at least earn a qualifier slot).
Sawmer SC, who are back in the SPL, will play on the second day against Nangkiew Irat SC. Then come a couple of days break as the ground will be needed for an I-League match between NEROCA and TRAU on 21st March.
Four-time champions Shillong Lajong FC and twice victors Langsning FC then face on 22nd March. As Lajong are currently involved in the I-League also, they are likely to field a junior team for the SPL, at least at the beginning.
The following day defending champions Mawlai SC will take on Ryntih SC in the last match of the first round.
(File photo)
