Shillong, Jul 27: Nongkseh claimed victory in their Shillong Premier League debut and it was made all the sweeter as they defeated neighbours Mylliem to do it.
Nongkseh won 1-0 through Aibiangmame Nongneng (45’+7) at the SSA Stadium in what was a tetchy affair between the Upper Shillong teams.
Referee G Marwein had to reach into his pocket on multiple occasions, with several players going into his book and both teams each had a player sent off before the final whistle.
Mylliem were all defensive in the first half. They looked to hit Nongkseh on the counter through Remark Kharmalki and new signing Kevizakie Ciesotsu but these moments were rare and they were more focused on not conceding.
They almost saw the first half off but a bit of bad luck ended up costing them. While attempting to keep the ball from going out for a corner, a defender hoicked it into the lap of a Nongkseh player. His shot hit the crossbar but the rebound fell to Aibiang, who nailed his attempt.
Mylliem had to show more intent in the second half but they were hampered when Shaibor Nongrum was sent off for a second yellow card. That disadvantage in numbers did not last long, however, as Arlangky Nongsiej of Nongkseh got his marching orders just a few minutes later for a second bookable offence.
Nongkseh continued to put Mylliem under pressure, with the latter’s goalkeeper Rihoklang Khongjoh forced into making two saves to deny Hardy Cliff Nongbri and Sheen Sohktung.
Istarbor Marngar had Mylliem’s best chance but Nongkseh keeper Guidle Syiemlieh managed to gather the attempt. His teammate Aenam Jyrwa then counterattacked but his dink over Rihok hit the woodwork.
Tomorrow’s match will be between Rangdajied United and Meghalaya Police at 6:30PM. Last year Rangdajied were fifth in the SPL, while MLP were promoted from the First Division after being runners-up. This will be the police team’s first match in the SPL since 2018 when they were relegated from the local top flight.
(Shillong Sports Association photo. Nongkseh’s Aibiangmame Nongneng (left) celebrates after scoring)
