Shillong, Aug 21: Leaders Mawlai were held to a 0-0 draw by Shillong Lajong in a high-intensity Shillong Premier League 2026 clash at the SSA Stadium here on Friday.
The result keeps Mawlai at the top of the table at the end of Round 2.
Both sides had won their openers — Lajong edging Nangkiew Irat 1-0 on July 29 and Mawlai hammering Laitkor 5-0 a day later, the biggest win of the season so far.
Expectations were high, given the recent history between the two — Lajong’s stunning 4-3 comeback from three goals down last season and their 2-1 win over Mawlai to clinch their fifth title in 2024.
Mawlai made one change from their big win, bringing in Lovingstar Suting for Samlang Rympei, while Lajong made three — Badondor Marbaniang, Freddy Jyrwa and Banshanskhem Kharsyntiew replacing Emanbha Marbaniang, Rimankhraw Kharumnuid and Lakpa Lama.
The first half produced the best chances. In the 30th minute, Mawlai’s Suting beat the keeper only to see his effort cleared off the line by Mebanaibok Kharbudnah. For Lajong, Abelson Jachi skewed a half-volley in the 20th minute and Deibormame Tongper miskicked in stoppage time.
The tempo only increased after the break. Robertson Khongriah fired just over the bar in the 53rd minute and Basuklang Bina was denied by a timely block in the 62nd for Mawlai. Lajong pushed late — substitute Lalmuansanga headed wide off a free-kick in the 81st minute and Galbraith Laitmon dragged another effort wide near the final whistle.
With the draw, four teams are tied on four points, but Mawlai lead on goal difference (+5). They are followed by Meghalaya Police (+1, 3 goals), Nongkseh (+1, 2 goals) and Lajong (+1, 1 goal).
