Shillong, Sep 14: There was a dramatic twist in the result of the Shillong Lajong versus Sawmer game in the Shillong Premier League 2026 on Saturday.
On the pitch, Lajong took a smashing 6-1 win over Sawmer but the latter protested the eligibility of certain players that their opponents used during the match.
The Shillong Sports Association’s Tournament Committee sat today to adjudicate on the matter.
The protest concerned Lajong allegedly fielding three non-Meghalaya domiciled players during the match. Representatives of both clubs were present today and were given a fair opportunity to present their case, the SSA said in a notification.
After hearing both parties and upon careful examination of all relevant documents and guidelines, the committee unanimously decided that Shillong Lajong violated Rule 9 of the SPL guidelines, which clearly states that “Only two players from outside Meghalaya are allowed in the playing eleven”.
As a result, the match shall stand forfeited by Lajong and Sawmer are to be awarded a 3-0 victory. The SSA notification, issued by Assistant General Secretary Samran Syiem, also urged all affiliated clubs to strictly adhere to the guidelines, rules and regulations as circulated by the SSA.
It all appears to have been a genuine mistake on the part of the Lajong officials. SLFC had started the game with Lakpa Lama in goal and it seems his presence was overlooked when two more non-domiciled players, Lalmuansanga and Abelson Jachi, were introduced as substitutes.
This result has huge implications on the race for the SPL title. Lajong continue to lead with 11 points from six games, but Mawlai, who have 10 from four outings, are in prime position to retake first place. Sawmer also jump from seventh place to fourth, now with 9 points. They are tied with defending champions Langsning but the latter have head-to-head advantage.
The next match will take place on Wednesday at 5PM between Mawlai and Langsning, yet another fixture that could play a massive role in deciding this year’s SPL title.
(Shillong Sports Association photo. Shillong Lajong in red, Sawmer in white)