Lajong FC (in red/black) and Assam Rifles players in action at Khuman Lampak main stadium in Imphal on Monday. Telegraph picture

Churchand soccer

Imphal, Dec. 20: Shillong Lajong FC today rode keeper Lalthuammawia’s daring saves during a penalty shootout to secure a 3-2 goal victory against Assam Rifles, Tezpur to enter the final of the 54th Sir Churchand Singh Football Tournament, 2010, played at Khuman Lampak main stadium here.

Lajong FC left winger James Gbilee was out of the match with a red card but will play in the final.

With no goals scored in the stipulated time, the match rolled on to the tiebreaker.

The Lajong keeper’s judgement saved the day, as he saved three kicks from Naoba Singh, Gopin Singh and Akum Ao.

Thoi Thoiba Singh and Ajitkumar Singh scored a goal each for Assam Rifles.

For Lajong FC, Racy K. Lalremmawia, C. Lullawmzuala and Zenith Mashangva converted their kicks to score while Lalramluaha mistimed and missed.

Lajong FC assistant coach Birendra Thapa said he felt happy the team reached the finals and hoped to have a top match with whoever they played against, either Tiddim Road Athletic Union or Kuki Sporting Club, who are to play in the second semi-final tomorrow. Assam Rifles coach Santanu Basu said it was a 50:50 game during the penalty shootout but the fit team won today.

Assam Rifles player Thoi Thoiba Singh, keeper Lokeshwor Singh and Lajong FC player Racy K. Lalremmawia and M. Subhas were booked with yellow cards in the match.