Lajong muscle its way to 3-0 victory

SHILLONG, MAR 23: Shillong Lajong FC scripted a comprehensive win over table toppers Bengaluru FC in an I-League match played at JN Stadium in Shillong on Sunday. Star striker Cornell Glen scored a brace for the Reds (81^st and 94^th minute) whilst Uilliams opened the scoring for the hosts in the 46th minute.

With the big win over Bengaluru the Reds now move to 29 points from 20 matches. The win also helps them retain their position at the top five of the table.

In what was a forgettable day for the visitors, Bengaluru were reduced to nine men after goalie Pawan Kumar (83 min) and Curtis Osano (93 min) were each handed a red card. The Bengaluru FC custodian was punished for handling the ball outside the box while the latter fouled Lajong striker, Tuboi, in a goal scoring chance.

After a silent first half, the Reds drew first blood through a goal from Uilliams in the 46th minute. Minchol Son had spotted Glen on the right and the former Trinidad and Tobago international controlled the ball and fed Uilliams inside the box. The Brazilian striker had to negotiate a tough bounce but managed it well and muscled the ball into the net to provide the lead to Lajong, much to the delight of the thousands of fans gathered to support their team on a cold evening.

Glen looked set to double the lead in the 66th minute but his left-footed aim on the target was pushed away by the keeper for a corner.

However, the star striker made amends in the 81st minute when he ripped through the heart of the Bengaluru defense going past two defenders to net the double for the Reds.

The nightmare was still not over for Ashley Westwood’s side as Curtis Osano was also red-carded in the added on time after an ill-timed tackle on Tuboi. Lajong was therefore awarded a penalty and Glen made no mistake to convert from the spot making it 3-0 for the home side.

Coach Thangboi Singto congratulated the boys for the brilliant show and added that a victory was long due for his side.

Bengaluru coach on the other hand rued the missed chances which according to him led to the side’s downfall on Sunday.

After the morale boosting win over Bengaluru FC, the Reds will host Mumbai FC on March 30 at the JN Stadium Shillong at 5 pm.- By Our Reporter