Wahiajer, Jan 29: Shillong Lajong edged past a resilient Rymbai Shkenshynriah 4-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout to secure their spot in the Meghalaya State League (MSL) 2024 final. Tuesday’s dramatic semifinal concluded with a 1-1 stalemate after extra time, setting up a tiebreaker that Lajong ultimately won. They will face Mawlai in the title clash on Saturday.
The semifinal saw fans on the edge of their seats as neither side managed to break the deadlock until the 84th minute. Iohborlang L Lyngkhoi put Lajong ahead with a spectacular free-kick, but R Shkenshynriah responded almost immediately. A handball by a Lajong defender gifted them a penalty, which Niwan-o Bareh calmly converted in the 87th minute.
Despite this being their first MSL campaign, R Shkenshynriah displayed remarkable grit, particularly in the first half. They absorbed relentless pressure from Lajong, with goalkeeper Livingstar Swer producing a superb diving save to deny Deibormame Tongper early on.
From the 20th minute, Lajong launched wave after wave of attacks, with Yohaan Benjamin’s sharp crosses from the left flank causing constant trouble. However, the East Jaintia Hills side, under the guidance of experienced coach Marlangki Suting, held firm and even threatened in the closing minutes of the half, with Hesmiki Rymbai and Iaishah Bareh missing opportunities to score.
The second half turned scrappy, with few clear-cut chances. It appeared that a single goal could decide the contest, and when Lajong earned a free kick after a foul on Deibormame, Iohborlang capitalized to put his team ahead. However, their lead was short-lived as R Shkenshynriah fought back to force extra time and penalties.
A key decision by Lajong coach Bobby L Nongbet proved decisive in the shootout. He substituted goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai for Wanteilang Malngiang specifically for the penalties. Wanteilang justified the move by making a crucial save, ensuring Lajong’s victory.
The MSL final will take place at the Wahiajer Multipurpose Sports Complex on February 1, with Lajong aiming to reclaim the title they last won in 2019. Meanwhile, Mawlai, who defeated Ladthadlaboh 1-0 in the other semifinal, will be chasing their first-ever MSL crown.
