Memorable Victory for Rangdajied United FC as They Secure Meghalaya State League 2023 Championship
Making good on their near-miss four years ago, Rangdajied United FC got their hands on the Meghalaya State League 2023 trophy by beating a spirited Khliehmawlieh Youth Club 1-0 in the final at the SSA Stadium here today to bring the curtains down on a memorable tournament.
The only goal of the game came in just the ninth minute off the boot of Wanlamsuk Nongkhlaw in front of a packed stadium brimming with supporters for both sides who made the action all the more thrilling. Rangdajied United seized the opportunity when Khongsdam received a throw-in from Apborlang Kurbah on the edge of the box. Khongsdam skillfully maneuvered past his marker and delivered a precise cross to Nongkhlaw, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net with a powerful left-footed strike. The goal sent the Rangdajied supporters into jubilation and set the tone for an intense battle on the field.
Khliehmawlieh’s fans never lost hope, though, as they knew their team could deliver a comeback, as they had done against Mawlai earlier in the week. The team began to lift their game towards the end of the first half, demonstrating their resilience and determination. They came close to equalizing on two occasions, with Kynjai Marthong heading a free-kick just wide and Shelbikstar Marngar’s shot taking a deflection and going astray.
The second half witnessed end-to-end action as Rangdajied United sought to extend their lead while Khliehmawlieh continued their search for an equalizer. Both teams had their opportunities, but a combination of solid defending and missed chances kept the scoreline unchanged.
At halftime, the Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) took the opportunity to recognize the efforts of the associations affiliated with them. Cheques of Rs 2 lakh each were handed out to all the associations for organizing local leagues in their respective areas, highlighting the MFA and State Government’s commitment to strengthening football infrastructure across all districts and creating a pathway to success.
In a short speech, MFA President Larsing LD Sawyan expressed gratitude to the Government of Meghalaya for their continuous support in making the Meghalaya State League possible. The government has been fully funding the league since its inaugural edition in 2017-18, ensuring its growth and success.
Aside from the championship trophy, financial rewards were also presented to the participating clubs. Rangdajied United FC received Rs 5 lakh as champions, while Khliehmawlieh Youth Club, the runners-up, were awarded a cheque of Rs 3 lakh. Additionally, clubs that qualified for the MSL received Rs 1 lakh each, with the semifinalists receiving an additional Rs 1 lakh.
Individual achievements were celebrated during the closing ceremony as well. Donlad Diengdoh of Mawlai SC was honored with the Golden Boot for being the top scorer of the tournament, having netted an impressive 15 goals. Banshanlang Sten of Rangdajied United FC was recognized as the best goalkeeper with the Golden Glove award, while the Golden Ball for the best player went to U-21 sensation Tremiki Lamurong, further highlighting Rangdajied United’s outstanding campaign.
The grand finale was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Adviser to the Chief Minister Hamletson Dohling, Additional Chief Secretary Dr. P Shakil Ahammed, Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills RM Kurbah, Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs R Sohkhlet, ex-MLA and former India international Eugeneson Lyngdoh, senior members of the Meghalaya Football Association, and representatives of the affiliated district sports associations.
With the Meghalaya State League 2023 now concluded, Rangdajied United FC can bask in the glory of their hard-fought victory and look forward to a promising future in Meghalayan football.
