Shillong, Sept 25: Mawlai SC missed the opportunity to return to the top of the Shillong Premier League (SPL) 2026 standings after being held to a 0-0 draw by Nangkiew Irat at the SSA Stadium on Friday.
The result leaves Mawlai third with 12 points from six matches, behind leaders Shillong Lajong FC on 14 points from seven games and defending champions Langsning on 13 from six. Nangkiew Irat moved up to seventh with eight points from eight matches, the most played by any team in the league so far.
The draw was Mawlai’s third of the season, with all three ending goalless. Their other two 0-0 results came against Langsning and Shillong Lajong. Despite remaining unbeaten and conceding just one goal in six games, Mawlai’s lack of goals continues to be an issue. They have scored eight times, the fewest among the current top five.
A minute’s silence was observed before kick-off in memory of former Shillong Sports Association Council Member Shandalang Talang.
Nangkiew Irat created the first clear opportunity in the 13th minute when Yhoto Lohe tested Mawlai goalkeeper Lambhamiki Lamare. The keeper produced a solid save to keep out the effort.
Lamare was called into action again later in the first half when Nangkiew Irat took a quick free-kick to catch the Mawlai defence off guard. Yhoto’s left-footed effort was on target, but Lamare reacted quickly to block it with his boot.
Mawlai almost responded immediately, with Basuklang Bina striking the post as they came close to taking the lead. Earlier, Ricky Chyne had also tried his luck from distance, but his effort went straight to Nangkiew Irat goalkeeper Surjay Kumar Pariyar.
Mawlai continued to dominate possession with their trademark short passing after the break but struggled to produce the decisive final touch.
Robertson Khongriah sent a left-footed effort wide in the 52nd minute, while Surjay saved again five minutes later to deny Samlang Rympei’s long-range attempt.
The closest Mawlai came to breaking the deadlock came late in the match when Robertson combined with a teammate to open up the Nangkiew Irat defence. However, the resulting shot went straight at Surjay.
Mawlai remain unbeaten but will have to improve their finishing if they are to challenge for the top spot, with the teams around them having games in hand.
Langsning will have the opportunity to reclaim first place when they face bottom side Mylliem on Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm.
