Internet Desk: Rangdajied United have advanced to the finals of the Gionee Shillong Premier League after a 2-1 win over Shillong Lajong FC today at the JN Stadium today.
Lajong took the lead in the match when Samuel Lalmuanpuia scored with an easy tap after converting Bipin’s cross in the 25th minute. The Reds came very close to double the lead in the 27th minute when Novin Gurung made a good run from the right and fed the ball to Lalrammuana inside the box but the latter’s header lacked accuracy as it went over the crossbar.
In the 43rd minute, Rangdajied got a very good chance to level the score but their foreign recruit, James Moga’s header went over the crossbar.
Lajong got another very good chance to double their lead in the 45th minute of the game. Bipin Singh crossed the ball for Redeem Tlang who was inside the box but the latter’s shot went wide.
In the 45+ Rangdajied were given a penalty as the referee spotted a foul by a Lajong player inside the box. D.Nongspung converted the penalty to finally level the scoreline 1-1 at half time.
In the 50th minute, Lajong were pressing very hard and were looking to regain the lead again in the match. Joseph Lalfakzuala’s shot from 25 yards was easily collected by the RUFC keeper.
Lajong were also given a penalty in the 75th minute of the match but Lalrammuana failed to convert as his shot went straight to the keeper’s arms.
In the 84th minute, James Moga netted the ball into the net and gave the Blues a 2- 1 lead over Lajong.
After conceding the goal, the Reds were working very well upfront and were adding pressure on the Blues. But Rangdajied held on till the final whistle and won the match by 2-1.
Shillong Lajong will now play the second semifinals on the 4th November and will look to deliver a much better performance to book their place in the finals.