MSL 2023: Rangdajied take back Group B top spot

Shillong, May 25: Rangdajied United took one step closer to the semifinals of the Meghalaya State League 2023 with a 3-0 victory over Rymbai Iawpynsing in Group B at the Kiang Nangbah Stadium in Jowai on Thursday.

Oresterwell Langshiang scored what must be the fastest goal in MSL history, with two more strikes in the second half giving back first place in the group to Rangdajied; tied at the top with Ladthadlaboh on 10 points each, RUFC are in front on goal difference (+11 to +9). The second half goals were provided by Aibiangmame Nongneng (70′) and Wansiewdor Nengnong (81′).

It all began in perfect fashion for Rangdajied as they scored with only around 15 seconds on the clock. An incredible start saw the match kicked off by Rangdajied, with the ball lobbed forward to Tremiki Lamurong on the right. His cross went to Nengnong, who then passed it on to Langshiang, with the diminutive No. 20 scoring past the goalkeeper’s outstretched leg.

Rymbai were unable to even get a touch on the ball before going behind but they shook that off and lifted their game enough not to let Rangdajied score any further in the first 45 minutes but they were largely confined to their own half.

Resistance continued to frustrate Rangdajied, who had to wait until the 70th minute before they scored their second goal, with Nongneng, who came on as a substitute at the start of the second half, getting up above his marker and heading in a cross by captain Knerktilang Buam following a short corner.

Top of the group was confirmed roughly 10 minutes later when, after Bansuklang Bina’s first attempt was blocked by Rymbai goalkeeper Christopher Lyngdoh, Nengnong stepped in to score off the rebound.

Correction: Yesterday’s result from Jowai should have read 3-0 in favour of Ladthadlaboh against Mulait United. Stephanson Pale (40’P, 60′) scored a brace and Nickyboy Swer (46′) one goal for Ladthadlaboh.