By Shillong Lajong FC Media

SHILLONG: Shillong Lajong Junior Boys emerged victorious in the Under 19 Shillong Premier League thereby lifting the Trophy in front of the spectators and fans at the JN Stadium in a Grand Finale Match played against Local rivals Rangdajied United FC with a score line of 4-0 today.

The match kicked off on a subtle note with both teams trying to find a good rhythm in the game. Both teams who were still undefeated in the match stood strong at the back with not much chances created for attackers of either side.

As the match wore on, Lajong kept pressing hard in front with some creativity whilst their opponents did not manage to maintain consistent possession. Then in the 28th minute of the match, winger Rakesh Pradhan gave Lajong the lead after receiving a through ball in the middle from Hardy Nongbri and then kicked the ball past the keeper for an easy tap in Goal.

Rangdajied United Juniors worked hard to come back in the game but the Junior Reds defence remained composed and never let the attackers threaten their keeper. In extra time of the first half, Lajong doubled the lead through a header from Rakesh Pradhan who capitalised on a header from team mate Samuel Lalmuanpuia which hit the bar and fell conveniently for an easy goal.

The second half started well for the Junior Reds who seemed to have gained more confidence with a two goal cushion. Lajong players connected really well in moving the ball around the pitch and not letting their opponents gain any momentum in the game. In the 55th minute, Sheen Sohktung scored the third goal for Lajong via a header in a similar fashion to the second goal. Samuel Lalmuanpuia dribbled the ball really well outside the box from the left and took a vicious shot on goal which could not be handled by the keeper and the ball bounced right in front of Sheen who made no mistake in converting. The Reds were high on confidence and already had one eye on the trophy. Rangdajied United FC players tried to come back in the game and had a couple of good chances in front of Goal but lacked the finishing touch. Lajong sealed the victory with the fourth goal being scored by young substitute, Dameki Khongstia in the 92nd minute.

Lajong Junior Reds were eventually crowned Champions of the Under 19 Shillong Premier League after a great victory. The players and Club are filled with Pride after a thrilling league this year where they remained undefeated and scored 29 goals from 7 matches and conceded only 2 goals throughout the tournament.