Shillong: Shillong Lajong FC rallied to register a 2-1 win over Guwahati FC in the Zonal Round U-18 I-League held at the J N Stadium here today.
Both teams did not start off the first half too well and were struggling to find rhythm in the match. There was no proper possession from either teams and lacked any quality display.
Guwahati FC were fortunate to take the lead in the 16th minute through Abhijit Tumung as the Lajong defence were beaten.
The visiting team, however, failed to create any more chances in the first half while Lajong were not making it easy for themselves with careless passes in the final third, thereby not creating good chances to equalise.
It was a lacklustre performance from both teams in the first half as it ended with a one goal lead in favour of Guwahati FC.
Returning after the break, the young Lajong side showed greater quality and determination to control the game and pressed forward from all areas of the opponent's half.
Their perseverance paid off when captain Mebankhraw Wahlang flicked a header past the keeper after a free kick taken by his team-mate Sheen Stevenson Sohktung to equalise in the 54th minute.
Lajong dominated the game henceforth and kept creating chances one after another. The visiting team worked well to keep the Lajong attackers at bay.
But eventually Lajong's Lalthanmawia found some space in front of goal to shoot and gave his side the winner in the 87th minute.
Lajong will play their next match against Royal Wahingdoh FC on November 5 here.
