Shillong, Aug 5: Sawmer bounced back from an opening-day defeat to register their first victory of the Shillong Premier League 2026 season, edging Rangdajied United 2-1 in an entertaining contest at the SSA Stadium on Tuesday.
Goals from Oresterwell Langshiang and Wanshanlang Dkhar either side of Pasborlang Khonglikong’s equaliser ensured Sawmer claimed all three points after an action-packed first half.
The result marked a strong response from Sawmer, who had begun their campaign with a narrow 1-0 loss to defending champions Langsning. Rangdajied, meanwhile, were left searching for their first win after following up last week’s 1-1 draw against Meghalaya Police with defeat.
Both coaches made changes to their starting line-ups. Sawmer brought in Andy Z Mawthoh for Bickyson Kharkongor, while Rangdajied introduced Ronald Kharkongor and Khainkupar Iawphniaw in place of Mebannangkiew Thabah and Mebatskhem L. Lyngkhoi.
The match started at a lively pace, with both teams creating early opportunities. Rangdajied threatened through Balamlynti Khongjee, whose powerful effort forced Sawmer goalkeeper Pyrshangbanbha Dkhar into action, while at the other end Banteilang Lyngdoh’s dangerous delivery was gathered safely by Rangdajied goalkeeper Meshan Banjop Sumer.
Sawmer broke the deadlock in the 18th minute from a corner. Orestar Sad’s delivery was only partially cleared, allowing Oresterwell Langshiang to pounce on the loose ball and fire a low effort into the net, with the shot appearing to take a slight deflection on its way past the goalkeeper.
Rangdajied responded quickly and restored parity six minutes later. A cross into the penalty area found Pasborlang Khonglikong, who controlled the ball expertly before turning and finishing confidently to make it 1-1.
The parity lasted only until the 36th minute when Sawmer regained the lead. Andy Z Mawthoh’s initial effort was bravely blocked by Balamlynti Khongjee, but the rebound fell kindly for Wanshanlang Dkhar, who reacted quickest to slot home from close range.
Rangdajied controlled more possession after the restart and pushed forward in search of another equaliser. Despite enjoying the better share of attacking play, they struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Sawmer defence.
In the closing stages, Rangdajied abandoned their patient build-up play in favour of direct balls into the wide areas, but Sawmer remained organised at the back and successfully protected their slender advantage.
With nearly eight minutes of stoppage time added, Sawmer held firm until referee Marcillinus PW Mawrie brought the contest to an end, sparking celebrations as they secured their first three points of the season.
The Shillong Premier League continues on Wednesday when Mylliem take on Laitkor at 4 pm. Both sides will be looking to recover from opening-day defeats, with Mylliem narrowly losing 1-0 to Nongkseh, while Laitkor suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat against Mawlai. Victory would provide either side with an early opportunity to revive their campaign.
