AGENCIES
SHILLONG
Hosts Shillong Lajong FC overturned an early goal to score three in the first half itself and win 3-1 against Aizawl FC in an I-league football clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Friday.
Forward Joel Ayeni got the away side to a encouraging start, tapping home from close range, as early as the third minute. But it only spurred the home team on as they banged in three in the first half. Forward Fabio Penas scored a brace (on 17 and 18 minutes). Midfielder Samuel Lalmuanpuia scored the third in the 37th. Lajong improved to 17 points from 13 matches but remained in the fourth spot in the standings. Aizawl stayed put in the eighth place with 12 from 14 games.
Pena was Lajong's star man as he inspired the team after conceding an early goal. Pena first equalised with a header. And a minute later, put his team in front with a powerful drive into the far right corner of the net.
Lajong kept up the pressure and extended the lead when midfielder Penn Orji combined with forward Uilliams to set up an unmarked Lalmanpuia who calmly weighed his into the top corner. From there on, Aizwal didn't quite have a chance to mount a comeback.
