Shillong Lajong decimate Malaysian Armed Forces

The 134th Durand Cup began its Shillong leg with a bang as home side Shillong Lajong routed Malaysian Armed Forces 6-0 for a dominant start to their Group E campaign at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the Meghalaya capital on Saturday.With Lajong coach Birendra Thapa choosing a youthful side to take on the Malaysian visitors, Everbrightson Sana (12', 66') and Phrangki Buam (47', 49') scored a brace each while substitutes Treimiki Lamurong (73') and Deibormame Tongper (90') added a strike each to the scoreline to earn the young side an opening victory in the tournament. Starting with a 4-3-3 formation, Shillong's very own I-League contenders controlled the game from early on as Sana headed in a pinpoint cross from Rudra Ved in the 12th minute, after a smart free-kick routine initiated by Sheen Stevenson. Malaysia's best chance in the first half came through a volley attempt by Mohamad Syamim Yusoff, which was narrowly punched clear by Lajong goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai. However, the Shillong defence, led by skipper Kenstar Kharshong and Saveme Tariang, remained firm to protect the lead.The second half saw the home side return with a gusto as Buam netted twice in the first five minutes — first by guiding in a free-kick from Stevenson in the 47th and then doubling his tally with a calm finish to a through ball two minutes later.The fourth goal came in the 66th minute as Sana turned sharply in the box and slotted the ball past the keeper to complete his brace.Their dominance, however, continued with substitute Lamurong curling in a beautiful effort in the 73rd minute from the edge of the box and, just before the final whistle, another substitute Tongper made a composed finish to round off a dominant outing against the Malaysians.