Shillong, Aug 1: Sanmer SS&CC were crowned champions of the SSA 3rd Division Football League 2026 after defeating Lamlynti FC 2-0 in the final at SSA Ground on Saturday.
After a closely contested first half, Sanmer broke the deadlock in the 71st minute when Khrawkupar Nongbri found the back of the net. Emerald Jyrwa sealed the victory with a second goal in the 78th minute as Sanmer lifted the title in convincing fashion.
Lamlynti’s hopes of a comeback were further dented after their captain was sent off late in the match, forcing the runners-up to finish with 10 men.
Khrawkupar Nongbri was named Player of the Match for his match-winning display in the final.
Sanmer’s title-winning campaign was built on a formidable defence, with the champions conceding just one goal throughout the tournament, which came via an own goal.
Both finalists, Sanmer SS&CC and Lamlynti FC, along with the two losing semifinalists, Umiew Maw U Sam and Mawkriah West SC, secured promotion to next season’s Second Division. Meanwhile, Nongumlong and Iaitylli were relegated to the Fourth Division.
At the prize distribution ceremony, SSA president Banteidor Lyngdoh presented Sanmer with the championship trophy and a cash prize of Rs 80,000, while runners-up Lamlynti received Rs 40,000.
The Shillong Sports Association also felicitated three of its match officials – Pynskhemhame Mawthoh, Jespar Syiemlieh and Pipilmoris Wanniang – for successfully passing the AIFF Level 5 examinations to become Category 5 referees/assistant referees.
The league’s Golden Boot was shared by Adelbor K Shun of Lummawbah SC and Vicky Kurkalang of Pomlakrai SC, with both players finishing the season on four goals.
