Airtel I-League: Shillong Lajong maul Dempo in Goa den

Mapusa (Goa) - In a perfect start to the season, Shillong Lajong brought down five-time I-league champions Dempo to their knees, humbling the Goan giants 3-0 at the Duler Stadium here Sunday.

Lajong kicked off proceedings by keeping possession of the ball. It paid off in the 30th minute as Uilliams Bomfin Souza Silva released the ball to teammate Cornell Glen who dribbled past through two defenders and found the net with a brilliant curling shot.

The goal surely marked a sign of intent from Lajong, who looked bent on breaking the “away” jinx.

In the 38th minute, the visiting team earned a free kick outside the box and midfielder Boithang Haokip, known for his free kicks, made the home team pay for their mistake with a wonderful free kick, which found its way into the right corner of the goal, doubling the lead.

It surely looked all but over for the home side, as they went into the break trailing by a brace.

As the second half went underway, the home team struggled to gain control and rhythm of the match and made their first substitution in the 55th minute, with Indian International Jeje Lalpekhlua replacing Mandar Rao.

Dempo then tried to consolidate and played with a much attacking intent, but a stellar defensive display from the reds thwarted any attempts on goal.

The game was then settled in the 67th minute, when Lajong Captain Minchol Son found Glen with a long ball, who managed to turn and score from a difficult angle. The match won, Lajong made their first substitution in the 73rd minute when Subash Singh replaced Uilliams.

With 12 minutes remaining, Dempo created a good chance when a shot by Beto found substitute Joy Ferrao, who unfortunately hit the top right corner of the post.