Shillong Lajong share spoils with Mumbai FC with a last gasp goal

The North East side earned a crucial point to push Mumbai FC to their third draw in three games...

Shillong Lajong earns a point in the last away game of the season versus Mumbai FC at the Cooperage Ground in Mumbai today. The match ended 1-1.

Isaac Vanmalsawma was adjudged the Hero of the Match for his incredible display in today’s game.

Mumbai FC kicked off the match in a brilliant fashion when they took the lead in the 2nd minute courtesy a thumping shot from the right by Victorino. Credit to the host whose early aggressive attack gave them an early lead.

Lajong were missing the services of top scorer, Dipanda Dicka due to injury and youngster Redeem Tlang who was suspended after accumulating 4 yellows in the season. The visitors were strong in the midfield in the first half, but could not create enough chances in front of goal to trouble the defence. After a bright start to the match, the tempo of the game dropped as both sides try to build up their game. Nevertheless, chances were witnessed on both ends of the pitch but could not be converted. Lajong youngster Isaac, almost levelled the score with his free kick in the 27th minute but Goalkeeper Kattimani dived brilliantly to the right to clear it away. The first half ended with just one goal scored by Mumbai FC.

At the start of the second half, Lajong brought on Samuel Lalmuanpuia in place of Rocus Lamare. Lajong had more control in the second half and created many chances. Yuta Kinowaki of Lajong was very unlucky not to score in the 60th minute after finding himself free inside the box but his shot hits the bar and cleared away. A couple of minutes later on the other end, Siam Hangal of Mumbai took a shot from outside the box which was brilliantly parried away by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. Samuel Lalmuanpuia had a positive impact in Lajong’s attack after coming on and had few chances at goal but Kattimani denied him any goal.

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Mumbai had many chances on the counter attack but lacked imagination in front of goal. The host were looking to see the game out but Yuta Kinowaki spoiled their party with a late equaliser in the 91st minute. Kinowaki found some space on the edge of the box and controlled it well to take a half volley shot towards the top left corner with no chance for the keeper to save. Immediately after restart, Siam Hangal took a shot on the other end but his shot goes over the bar. The match ended with the score levelled and an improved second half gave Shillong Lajong an away point.

The Reds will travel back to Shillong as they prepare to face Aizawl FC on the 30th of April 2017 at 7pm in a crucial North East Derby which will decide I-League winner.