Calcutta: Prayag United SC defeated Lajong FC 2-0 in an I-League match at the Kalyani Stadium on Friday. Ranty Martins and Shylo Malsawamtluanga were the scorers.

Lajong FC came into the match on the back of a four-match unbeaten run. One would have expected them to give a much better display, but they disappointed.

True they created a few opportunities but United SC players easily thwarted those.

With the win, United SC moved to the third spot with 41 points from 25 matches while Lajong FC remained in the 10th spot with 25 points from as many matches.

The match got off to a thrilling start with both the sides getting a chance in the first two minutes. But neither could convert them.

First it was Edinho Junior, the Portuguese striker whom the Shillong outfit had taken on loan from Blackburn Rovers. Edinho made a darting run before shooting the ball over an onrushing United SC goalkeeper Subrata Paul.

In the very next minute, Ranty got an opportunity to give his side the lead. But a moment’s indecision — he was in two minds whether to shoot the ball or pass — allowed the Lajong defender to clear the ball.

United SC finally the net in the 18th minute when Ranty scored through a penalty. Bello sent a probing long ball into the Lajong box, with Kayne Vincent making a dashing run to take control of the proceedings.

But Subrata nudged the New Zealand striker before he could reach the ball and the referee Rahul D’Sa immediately pointed to the dreaded spot.

Nine minutes later, United SC doubled their lead. Ranty was the architect of the move, releasing Vincent. The New Zealander waltzed to the opponent box before laying it off for Malsawamtluanga. The winger did not make any mistake as he fired home a right-footer.