Shillong, Aug 25: Nangkiew Irat finally roared into Shillong Premier League 2026 with a clinical second-half show, beating Laitkor 2-0 at SSA Stadium today for their first win of the season.
Super-subs made the difference. Ronaldkydon L Nonglait unleashed a stunning left-foot rocket from outside the box in the 67th minute to break Laitkor resistance, before Jefferson Pakyntein sealed it in 90+4′ with a cool finish off Wallamsuk Nongkhlaw’s defence-splitting through ball — his second goal of the season.
First half was end-to-end but goalless. Jefferson’s 15th-minute strike was brilliantly parried by Laitkor keeper Deranius Wahlang, Kitdor Kharphuli saw two close-range efforts blocked in the 21st minute, Shelbilkstar Kharshilot went close on the half hour, and veteran Dibinroy Nongspung’s cheeky back-heel off a Sangti Janai Shianglong cross went wide in stoppage time.
Laitkor, coming off a win over Mylliem, rang in three changes — Samborwell Mynsong, Shaipharlin Nongsiej and Kitdor for Balajiedlang Lyngwa, Eddisius Kharkongor and Damutskhem Mawrie. Nangkiew Irat, who drew with Nongkseh last time, made four — Sangti, Edyvenson Dhar, Dibinroy and Restom Khriam for Terry Khongsti, Yhoto Lohe, Neblejohn Lyngkhoi and Maxderidoff Wahlang. The gamble of bringing Yhoto early in second half paid off as his 60th-minute drive forced a top save from Deranius before Ronald’s moment of magic.
Laitkor never threatened after going behind.
Bottom-placed Mylliem, with two defeats, now face an acid test against unbeaten defence Mawlai tomorrow at 3:40 pm. Mawlai have 4 points and are yet to concede.
