Shillong Lajong thrash Dempo

From Our Correspondent

Shillong, May 2: Lajong FC deservedly emerged victorious as they defeated Goan side Dempo SC by a score line of 3-0 with goals through Uilliams, Khelemba and Glen. The win comes in their second home game in a run of 7 home game fixtures stretching until the fil game of the season.

The first half started out slowly with both teams failing to hold possession of the ball long enough to create any chances. As the game progressed Lajong were able to find their feet and control the match. After a flurry of chances the home side were awarded a free kick in the 14th minute just a few yards outside the box. Uilliams stepped up to take the free kick which sailed into the side netting to the keeper’s left leaving Dempo custodian Kattmani stretching in vain in the 17th minute.

The home side deservedly got the lead and maged to create more chances towards the end of the first half. After having played with much of the confidence that took their side to sixth position in the previous season, The Reds were able to find their second goal. Khelemba Meitei who filled in for club captain Aibor Khongjee headed in a well taken corner to score on his debut and give the home side an assayable two goal cushion going into the break. Uilliams provided the assist to the goal scored in the 37th minute.

As the match resumed, so did the momentum of the home side as they pressed hard early on in the second half. Dempo eventually succumbed to the pressure as Lenny Rodrigues pulled down Uilliams inside the box after the Lajong striker was allowed to turn. Cornell Glen took the spot kick and confidently chipped the ball right through the middle to move his side three goals up as early as the 50th minute.

Dempo SC maged to find a few attacks but the home side were never in danger of conceding. The visitors however maged to make matters worse for themselves as they went down to ten men after Nirmal Chettri picked up his second yellow card following a foul on Zodinglia.

Shillong Lajong coach Thangboi Singto tried to increase the deficit by introducing more fire power through David Ngaihte and local boy Shaiborlang Kharpran but could not capitalize on the 10 men Goan side as the score remained 3-0 until the fil whistle.

This win gives Lajong their much needed confidence following a four game winless streak. The three points also mean Shillong Lajong FC are now in seventh position in the I-League with 16 points after having played 15 games.  The Reds will play their next match against Bengaluru FC on May 8.