Shillong, May 2: Shillong Lajong FC stayed in the hunt for the Indian Football League 2025-26 title by walloping Chanmari FC 4-0 at the SSA Stadium here this evening.
Phrangki Buam (45’+1) netted the opening goal towards the end of the first half but three more followed in the second 45 minutes through his team mates Tremiki Lamurong (70′), Everbrightson Mylliempdah (77′) and Damaitphang Lyngdoh (86′).
The visitors were disadvantaged early on after Joel Lalramengmawia was sent off with a double yellow in the 16th minute.
Lajong coach Birendra Thapa made three changes from the starting lineup against Dempo last Sunday – Siwel Rymbai was back in goal for Ranit Sarkar, while Jakob Vanlalhimpuia and Abhay Gurung replaced Gladdy Kharbuli and Everbrightson.
After several missed chances, Lajong got their opener just before the halftime whistle when Lamlallian sent in a long ball to Phrangki, who swerved his way past two defender before nailing the shot into the top of the net.
Changing ends, the newly-introduced pair of Frigo Syndai and Tremiki partnered for the second goal, with Figo working his way into the box before feeding the ball to his team mate. Tremiki trapped the ball with his left foot and struck it with his right, leaving the Chanmari goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Everbrightson powered a low shot along the ground from outside the box for the third goal and Damaitphang’s followed a few minutes later with little power but perfect placement from as far away as the penalty arc.
With this win Lajong moved to 21 points, still 4 behind leaders Diamond Harbour FC but they remain close even if the situation strongly favours DHFC. Diamond Harbour have a game in hand and will take on Sreenidi Deccan tomorrow evening.
SLFC’s next match will take them to Hyderabad where they will face Sreenidi Deccan on 10th May.
Shillong Lajong squad today:
Siwel Rymbai (GK) (sub Ranit Sarkar 36′), Kitboklang Khyriem, Rudra Ved, Saveme Tariang, Ephraim Lalremtluanga (sub Figo Syndai 60′), Kenstar Kharshong (sub Overkindness L Mawnai 82′), Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Lamlallian, Jakob Vanlalhimpuia (sub Everbrightson Mylliempdah 60′), Abhay Gurung (sub Tremiki Lamurong 60′), Phrangki Buam (sub Maxderidoff Wahlang 81′)
(Indian Football League photo)
