MSL 5: Samuel Phawa’s hat-trick sends Langsning through to next round

Shillong, May 12: Langsning FC wrapped up the last available spot in the Top 8 with a 5-0 victory against Lumphyrnai Sohphoh FC at the SSA Stadium here tonight.

Samuel Phawa (25′, 45′, 45+1) registered a first half hat-trick after MSL 5 top scorer Nelson Rymbai (4′) put Langsning ahead early in the game. Nelson now has 15 goals to his name. Denelson Pyngrope scored the other goal of the game in the 10th minute.

Although the scoreline was one-sided, Lumphyrnai Sohphoh showed tremendous ability and tested Langsning goalkeeper Rajat Paul Lyngdoh on numerous occasions throughout the match in front of their travelling supporters.

This match had been scheduled for yesterday in Mairang but unfavourable ground conditions brought about by heavy rain forced it to be moved to Shillong today. Langsning were the toppers of Group F, while Lumphyrnai Sohphoh finished second in Group E.

With Langsning now filling the last available spot, the round robin quarterfinal stage for the Top 8 teams has now been settled.

Nongkseh SSCC, Mawlai, SC, Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC form a ‘group of death’ in Group A with three past and present champions, while Nangkiew Irat SC, Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC, Langsning FC and Maram FC comprise Group B.

Teams will play each other twice and the Top 2 from each group will progress to the semifinals. All matches will take place in Shillong.

This is the first time that this format is being employed in the MSL and it will give fans more opportunities to come and watch their favourite teams in person.

The first two games will take place tomorrow, both in Group A at the SSA Stadium. At 2PM Nongkseh will face Mawlai and at 6PM old rivals Lajong and Rangdajied will go head to head in a mouthwatering first day of the Super 8 stage.