Shillong, Mar 17: Rajasthan United FC delivered a crushing blow to Shillong Lajong FC’s dwindling I-League 2024-25 title aspirations as they secured an emphatic 4-0 victory in Jaipur on Sunday.
The hosts’ triumph was marked by goals from Abhash Thapa (45+2’), Martand Raina (50’), Seiminmang Manchong (54’) and Pranjal Bhumij (76’).
Following a demoralising 6-1 defeat against Churchill Brothers in their previous outing, a return to form for Lajong was crucial but was made harder after three players were suspended due to red cards against the Goans.
Lajong coach Jose Carlos Rodriguez Hevia made four changes to the starting line-up. In came Saveme Tariang, Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Douglas Tardin and Everbrightson Mylliempdah and out went Kenstar Kharshong, Renan Paulino De Souza, Wadajied Kynsai Ryngkhlem and Marcos Rudwere Genar Silva.
Lajong’s performance on Sunday lacked character and they seemed overshadowed by the remnants of their previous loss. Throughout the match, they struggled to mount any significant challenge against Rajasthan’s defence, appearing disjointed and ineffective in both attack and defence.
The defeat (their third in four games) has further implications for Lajong’s league standing as they now find themselves in seventh place with 26 points from 19 games. They are tied with Namdhari FC but the latter have the better goal difference head-to-head record and are thus placed in front.
Rajasthan, on the other hand, returned to winning ways after suffering two consecutive defeats. This victory not only reinstated their confidence but also improved their position in the league table, lifting them to fifth place with 27 points from 19 matches. The hosts also avenged their 8-0 loss against Lajong in the first leg.
Rajasthan’s breakthrough came in the added minute of the first half, with Thapa opening the scoring. Manchong initiated the move by playing a beautiful pass between the Lajong defenders. Thapa timed his run perfectly before he slotted the ball past an onrushing Lajong goalkeeper Ranit Sarkar.
The hosts scored their next two goals from set-pieces soon after the second half started. Captain Alain Oyarzun whipped in two corners and Raina and Manchong rose above the Lajong defenders to find the back of the net.
Rajasthan added on to Lajong’s misery in the 76th minute when substitute Bhumij held on to a long ball and kept his calm to score past a hapless Sarkar and seal a comprehensive victory for his side.
Lajong will play the last of their run of six away games against Inter Kashi on 24th March.
Shillong Lajong squad today:
Ranit Sarkar (GK), Ronney Kharbudon, Kynsailang Khongsit, Saveme Tariang (sub Kitboklang Khyriem 60′), Daniel Goncalves, Damaitphang Lyngdoh (sub Gladdy Kharbuli 60′), Hardy Cliff Nongbri (sub Batskhemlang Thangkhiew 75′), Phrangki Buam, Tremiki Lamurong (sub Aryan Khokhar 90’+8), Douglas Tardin, Everbrightson Mylliempdah (sub Sheen Sohktung 60′)
(Photo: I-League Media)