The second goal was a kick in our stomach, says Shillong Lajong coach José Hevia after loss in Durand Cup semis

Hevia was proud of Shillong Lajong’s players despite their exit.

NorthEast United FC defeated José Hevia’s Shillong Lajong FC by a 3-0 margin in the semi-final of the 133rd Durand Cup, held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. However, the second goal scored by Alaeddine Ajaraie has sparked a controversy among the fans.

In the 33rd minute of the game, Néstor Albiach managed to bisect the Lajong defense in the air to find Ajaraie’s perfectly timed run. The Moroccan brought it down beautifully with his left foot and chipped it over Shillong Lajong goalkeeper Manas Dubey. However, the ball struck the right upright and came back. Ajaraie was fortunate to have a second attempt and this time he made no mistake in doubling the lead.

Initially, the officials ruled the goal out for offside. However, after a thorough discussion with the linesman, main referee Crystal John awarded the goal in favor of NorthEast United FC.

For me, it was offside

Reacting to the incident, José Hevia during the post-match press conference, stated that he would not complain about the incident. He said, “I thought it was offside. For me, it was offside. But once the referee says it’s a goal, there’s nothing more to say.”

When asked about the possibility of implementing VAR, José Hevia commented, “Even with the technology, mistakes are still made on the field all the time.”

He further added, “Obviously, VAR can help. But once the match is over, it’s not serious to complain about the referee. We had to score the goals. So let the referees be, let them enjoy life. Let us carry on with our plan. No, no, nothing to say about the referees. I don’t like complaining about them.”

When questioned about the possibility of registering a protest, Hevia replied, “I don’t think so. The score was 0-3. So, let it go.”

The second goal was a kick in our stomach

José Hevia admitted that the second goal had an impact on the Shillong Lajong players. He said, “The second goal was a kick in our stomach. After that goal, it became complicated to change their mentality. When the opponent is on an equal level, it’s easier. But it’s complicated for the players when you see a strong squad in front of you, trying to come back and score at least two goals.”

“When the team is two goals down, it’s very difficult to maintain the same intensity. And they [NorthEast United] knew how to cancel us out. But until the second goal, I think the team’s performance was very good,” Hevia concluded.

A Milestone for the team

Shillong Lajong had an impressive Durand Cup campaign this year. They overcame two big teams from the Indian Super League (ISL), played a draw with FC Goa in their crucial group match, and defeated Emami East Bengal FC in the quarter-final at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.

Expressing his gratitude, José Hevia thanked the fans of Shillong Lajong. He said, “It’s a milestone, not only to reach the semi-final, but to have these guys playing against NorthEast United, an ISL team, and against East Bengal, the big one.”

“Seven players from Meghalaya, and also the players who came in during the second half, are from the youth academy of Shillong Lajong FC. So, we have a lot to be proud of.”

Can reach the heavens with fans’ support

Shillong Lajong head coach José Hevia expressed his gratitude towards the fans. He said, “I love Shillong, and I love the fans. Their support is unbelievable. Hopefully, they’ll continue to show the same support during the I-League. With them, it’s possible to reach the top level. We can reach the heavens with their support. So please, come again and again and support us.”

With just 20 days together, we managed to reach the semi-final of the Durand Cup

José Hevia joined Shillong Lajong FC on 12th July 2024. He shared his thoughts on preparation for the Durand Cup and future games, saying, “We’re still in pre-season. We’ve only been working together for 20 days. With just 20 days together, we managed to reach the semi-final of the Durand Cup, playing against two great ISL teams, beating one of them in the quarter-final, and competing on an equal level until the second goal. What we have to do now is carry on with our plan. I’m very proud of them.”

“All teams want to strengthen their squads. So, if new players come to the team, they’re welcome. And hopefully, we can be at the top during the I-League,” José Hevia concluded.

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