Shillong, Feb 4: Langsning FC had to dig deep to secure a 2-1 victory against a determined Ryntih FC in their OC Blue Shillong Premier League (SPL) 2024 encounter at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, on Monday.
Dauruhipaia Pale (35’) put Langsning ahead in the first half, but Ryntih responded through Basuklang Bina (69’), who found the equalizer. Just when it seemed like the match would end in a draw, Dajiedlang Wanshnong (87’) sealed the win with a decisive header.
Ryntih have endured a difficult season, particularly struggling in recent games, having conceded 24 goals while managing to score just once in their last three outings. Langsning, on the other hand, started the season below expectations but have shown significant improvement in recent fixtures. However, they may have underestimated their opponents on Monday, and Ryntih made sure to put up a fight.
A major boost for Ryntih was the return of their first-choice goalkeeper, Luckystar Lawai. His presence allowed Derick Khongsit, who had been forced to play in goal for the last two matches, to resume his usual role in the outfield.
Despite this reinforcement, Lawai could do little to prevent Dauruhipaia from heading in a well-delivered cross from the right flank. Ryntih almost responded immediately, with Basuklang getting a shot on target just two minutes later, but Langsning keeper Rajat Paul Lyngdoh made a crucial save.
Ryntih continued pressing for an equalizer, and Andy Mawthoh came close, only to see his shot fly over the crossbar. Their persistence finally paid off when Basuklang, one of their standout performers this season, capitalized on a corner kick to score only his team’s second goal in six matches.
Langsning, shaken by the equalizer, stepped up their efforts in the final minutes. Their push was rewarded when substitute Dajiedlang connected with a precise diagonal pass inside the box to score the winner.
Ryntih, however, did not back down and nearly snatched a draw in stoppage time, but Rajat Paul pulled off a stunning save to deny Leversharp Syiemlieh’s goal-bound attempt.
The victory lifts Langsning to fourth place with 17 points, though they have played more matches (13) than any other team in the competition. Ryntih, despite showing improvement, remain rooted to the bottom of the table with just 3 points and are on the brink of relegation after suffering their 11th consecutive defeat.
The action continues on Tuesday as Nongrim Hills SC take on Laitkor SC at 2:30 PM. Laitkor currently sit in fifth place with 16 points, while Nongrim Hills are in seventh with 13.
