Four goals from Wanlamsuk Nongkhlaw powered Langsning to a 7-0 victory over Shilliang Umdoh in the opening Group B match of the inaugural Meghalaya State League (MSL) at Kurkalang Ground in Bhoirymbong on Saturday.
Shilliang Umdoh gave a good account of themselves in the first half, which saw only one goal scored – that of Nongkhlaw, who netted the ball low to the right of the goalkeeper in the 42nd minute.
However, some encouraging words from the coaching staff must have done wonders for Langsning, as they came out after the half time break with another six goals, four of them coming in the space of 11 minutes.
Andyson Lapang started off in the 52nd minute, followed by Fullmoon Mukhim (60th) and Nongkhlaw (62nd, 63rd).
Lapang added another in the 87th before Nongkhlaw signed off on a fantastic performance with a final goal in stoppage time.
The match saw a good turnout of local supporters, with Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Matsiewdor War Nongbri and Meghalaya State Olympic Association Working President John F Kharshiing among the dignitaries present. Monday will see a further seven games played across the four venues.
Group A (Jowai):Raliang vs Umlatkhur at 11:00am, Niaw Wasa vs Umkiang at 2:00pm
Group B (Bhoirymbong):Rangdajied United vs Pyndem Umbri at 2:00pm
Group C (Mairang):Pyndengrei vs Tynrongmaw at 11:00am, Mawten vs Madan Bynther at 2:00pm
Group D (Ampati):Druma Sandruma vs A’tong Matgrik at 11:00am, Warima vs Resu Conventus at 2:00pm
The Meghalaya State League is a new initiative bringing together for the first time 19 clubs from across the state in one tournament. It was formally inaugurated in Shillong on December 12 by Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma.
The league is being organised by the Meghalaya Football Association in collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya through the latter’s Mission Football policy.
The clubs have been divided into three groups of five teams and one of four. Rs 5 lakh will go to the eventual champions, with Rs 3 lakh to the runners-up. The group stage will be played in a round-robin format, followed by home-and-away semifinals for the sides that qualify at the top of their respective groups.
