I-League 2018-19: East Bengal v Shillong Lajong Laldanmawia Ralte's Love for Goals sees Red and Gold mount late title challenge

#1 Hat-trick Hero Laldanmawia steals the limelight

Coming into this match, Laldanmawia Ralte was known for his excellent performance in the Kolkata Derby. In the previous four encounters, he scored three goals and became a hero in the eyes of the Red and Golds faithful.

But it was his hat-trick on Thursday that stood above everything. It was the first hat-trick by an Indian footballer this season. He has now scored his seventh goal of the campaign.

The Mizo footballer usually keeps himself quiet all the time. But on the field, he is hungry like a starving tiger. Whenever he gets the ball on his feet, he tries to make an impact.

But above everything, it is his brilliant positioning that earned him the reputation. During his first goal, he was waiting at the far post and gladly put the ball into the net through a well-taken corner off Lalrindika Ralte.

The 2nd goal was a sheer piece of brilliance. He was waiting in the Lajong half when Borja Gomez crossed him a perfect delivery. Seeing the Lajong goalkeeper off his line, Laldanmawia received the ball with his right foot and lobbed it over the goalkeeper before anyone could intercept.

His hat-trick goal was a gift from his teammates. After receiving the ball on the right flank, Jaime Santos made a cross to Jobby Justin. Justin, who saw the onrushing Laldanmawia from behind, left the ball for him. The Mizo footballer received the ball before putting it into the back of the net with his 2nd touch.

Spanish coach Alejandro kept his trust on the young footballer from the very beginning and the Mizo is paying it back in every match. It is expected he would shine more in the coming matches.