Royal Wahingdoh runs out narrow winners in a thrilling encounter with fellow title contenders Malki SC

Rungsing Muinao and Kitboklang Pale scored a goal apiece in each half to give Wahingdoh the win as Cameo Lamare’s equaliser proved to be a false dawn for Malki SC...

Royal Wahingdoh has been disappointing for most of their games this season while Malki has been an absolute delight to watch. The two title contenders locked horns as Malki looked to climb top of the table while Wahingdoh’s aim was to leapfrog Malki before the match. Wahingdoh executed their game plan very well and got an early lead through Rungsing Muinao in the 8th minute. It was a beautifully taken goal by the young Tangkhul striker who struck the ball home from just inside the Malki box. Conceding so early often takes its tool to many smaller teams and they falter but Malki weren’t to be deterred. They caused Wahingdoh all kinds of problems and got a deserved equaliser in the 37th minute when Timmy Ryngkhlem’s cross was easily directed home at the far post by Cameo Lamare. The game was up for grabs for both the teams and Rungsing had a chance to double his tally when he went one on one with the keeper late in the first half but the striker couldn’t find the back of the net this time. Wahingdoh started the second half in the same fashion as they did in the first half and got an early goal again when Andyz Mawthoh’s cross was converted by Kitboklang Pale in the 55th minute. Wahingdoh’s early second goal had its psychological effect on Malki and Wahingdoh began to see more of the ball and were more dominant in the second half. However, the last 5 minutes of the match saw Malki committing men forward to peg a goal back and upset Wahingdoh. Wahingdoh gave away corners and free kicks as nerve seemed to take over. Malki’s last ditch for a goal however was futile as Wahingdoh held on to their nerves and their lead to get over the finish line with the win and three precious points. Tomorrow’s fixture: Shillong Lajong FC Vs. Meghalaya Police FC.