Shillong Premier League: Rangdajied United edge Nongrim Hills 1-0

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 1, 2025

Rangdajied United finally opened their account in the Shillong Premier League 2025 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Nongrim Hills at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, on Monday.

The decisive moment came in the 74th minute when Shanborlang Thangkhiew, under pressure from Rangdajied’s Manbhalang Iawphniaw, accidentally turned Bantiplang Khongnoh’s cross into his own net. It was a fortunate breakthrough for Rangdajied, who had waited more than 250 minutes for their first goal of the season.

The victory lifted RUFC from ninth to fifth in the standings with 4 points, while Nongrim Hills slumped to the bottom after suffering their third consecutive defeat.

The opening half was dominated by Rangdajied, who created several chances through Stephanson Pale, Balamlynti Khongjee, Eijingmut Dkhar and Denelson Pyngrope. Their best effort came in the 36th minute when RT Hanson Pdang struck the woodwork. Nongrim Hills responded late in the half, with Rudolf Shadap’s solo run nearly breaking the deadlock, only for his effort to go wide under pressure from debutant goalkeeper Kerichard L Marshillong.

The second half saw Nongrim Hills come out stronger, but Rangdajied’s counterattacks grew sharper. Ebenson Warbah pulled off a fine save in the 68th minute to deny Menangpyngdap Khongjee, before the own goal turned the tide. Nongrim Hills almost rescued a point at the death when a free-kick deflected dangerously, but Bansynshar Kharshong could not capitalise.

In Tuesday’s fixture, defending champions Shillong Lajong will take on Laitkor at 4:30pm. Lajong could climb to second place with a win, while Laitkor will aim to break into the Top 3.