Shillong, Sept 24: Shillong Lajong FC moved to the top of the Shillong Premier League (SPL) 2026 standings after a comfortable 3-0 victory over Laitkor at the SSA Stadium here on Thursday.
Freddy Jyrwa opened the scoring in the 27th minute before Rimankhraw Kharumnuid doubled the advantage in the 64th. Iohborlang L Lyngkhoi completed the scoring from the penalty spot in the 78th minute.
The victory takes Lajong to 14 points from seven matches, one point ahead of defending champions Langsning, who have 13 points from six games. Mawlai are third with 11 points from five matches and remain unbeaten.
Laitkor, who had lost their previous three SPL meetings against Lajong, struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities despite showing glimpses of promise. Their attacks lacked cohesion against a well-organised Lajong defence.
Laitkor goalkeeper Deranius Wahlang made an early save to keep out Galbraith Laitmon’s free-kick in the fourth minute, but he was unable to prevent Lajong from taking the lead midway through the first half.
The opening goal came after Samchaphrang Lato played the ball forward towards Freddy Jyrwa. With Laitkor defender Richarles Rani attempting to deal with the situation, there appeared to be hesitation between him and Deranius, allowing Freddy to take advantage and find the net.
Laitkor struggled to threaten the Lajong goal after the break. Wadskhem Marbaniang’s effort, which was comfortably collected by Lajong goalkeeper Lakpa Lama, was their only shot on target in the second half.
Lajong then doubled their advantage in the 64th minute. After moving the ball from the left across to the opposite side, Rimankhraw Kharumnuid found himself in space. He controlled the ball with one touch before unleashing a powerful strike past Deranius.
Laitkor had another opportunity on the counter, but Shaipharlin Nongsiej was unable to finish after carrying the ball into the Lajong box.
Lajong sealed the three points 12 minutes from time when Riborlang L Lyngkhoi was brought down inside the penalty area. Iohborlang L Lyngkhoi took responsibility from the spot and made no mistake to make it 3-0.
The result puts Lajong temporarily at the summit, although Mawlai can reclaim first place when they face Nangkiew Irat at 3pm on Friday.
Mawlai, who are yet to lose this season, will move back to the top with a victory. They currently have a superior goal difference of +7 compared to Lajong’s +4.
