Shillong, Jul 29: Shillong Lajong FC asserted their dominance in the fiercely contested Shillong Derby, defeating Rangdajied United FC 3-1 in an electrifying Group E encounter of the 134th Durand Cup at the JN Stadium here.
Combining attacking flair with tactical discipline, Lajong took a decisive step towards the knockout stages after having beaten the Malaysian Armed Forces team 6-0 last Saturday. Today’s match was a tale of contrasting approaches – Lajong’s methodical transitions and control met Rangdajied’s high-octane aggression. Ultimately, it was the Reds’ clinical edge and composure that carried them through.
Just when it looked like the first half would end goalless, Everbrightson S Mylliempdah (45’+1) made sure that Lajong went into the break with the lead. Mebanshngain Kurkalang (58′) did equalise in the second half for RUFC but Damaitphang Lyngdoh (66′) and Gladdy N Kharbuli (80′) carried the game for Lajong.
Lajong lined up in their trusted 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on fluid wing play and structured possession to pull Rangdajied out of shape. Everbrightson, Damaitphang and Gladdy orchestrated the attacks, frequently exploiting the spaces between Rangdajied’s midfield and defensive lines.
Rangdajied countered with a 4-3-3, emphasising direct wing play and quick transitions. While they started with energy, their rhythm was repeatedly disrupted by a flurry of fouls – 21 in total – that allowed Lajong to dictate the tempo.
Despite the aggressive tone, the opening half saw both teams exchange promising chances. The deadlock was broken in first-half stoppage time when Everbrightson capitalised on a defensive scramble following a set-piece. His sharp finish sent the fans into celebration and gave Lajong a valuable 1-0 lead at the break.
Rangdajied responded brightly after the interval, drawing level in the 58th minute through Mebanshngain, who finished off a slick team move with composure. The equaliser momentarily shifted momentum, but Lajong were quick to regain control.
In the 66th minute, Damaitphang restored Lajong’s lead with a smartly taken goal, finishing off the team’s most cohesive attacking sequence of the match. Rangdajied’s frustration grew, reflected in careless fouls and bookings that further hindered their push.
The killer blow came in the 80th minute, when Gladdy capped off a lightning-fast counterattack, combining neatly with a team mate at the top of the box before slotting home with precision to seal the 3-1 win.
While the shot count remained relatively even, Lajong’s superior discipline, sharper passing and clinical finishing made the difference.
With this commanding performance, Shillong Lajong solidified their position atop the group and underlined their credentials as serious contenders for the title. Rangdajied, though spirited, must now regroup and bring more discipline into their game if they hope to progress.
The next match in Shillong will take place on Saturday between defending champions NorthEast United FC and the Malaysian Armed Forces team.
(DIPR photo. Shillong Lajong in red, Rangdajied United in light blue)
