Lajong first past the post

Saikhphao Tuboi and Roming Thanga had sunk in the goals within the first forty-five minutes to almost seal the issue,but general secretary Larsing Ming Sawyan,apart from the customary handshakes,couldn’t quite let out the emotions. The news hadn’t spread. But the gestures were enough to emphasise that I-League had got a new destination in Shillong.

“I received a few calls from home and friends. We have qualified for the I-league,but perhaps the feeling hasn’t quite sunk in yet,” said Sawyan.

Despite being the first to ensure an I-League spot next season,Lajong were never the favourites. That title was reserved for the bigger teams,and initally,it wasn’t difficult to single out who the lucky ones would be from amongst a field consisting Salgaocar,ONGC,Pune FC,Viva Kerala and Sesa Goa,besides Lajong.

As derision and scepticism gave way to effusive praise by Tuesday evening,Larsing says he was confident of this moment. “Nobody counted us until we finally did it. It’s due to lack of knowledge. But deep in our heart we knew we belong to the I-league,” he said.

The leap might come with its own conditions,like a definite increase in the budget and holding on to the players who have upped their stakes with the qualifications. The player-hunters were present at the stadium too but the management is looking to stick to the same set of players.

Already the targets have been set,but they are realistic. “We just want to consolidate our place in the I-League for the next two seasons. We need to gain experience. From the third season we will aim for the title,” Larsing added.

The victory on Tuesday wasn’t emphatic,but wasn’t unconvincing either. Even opposition coach Stewart Hall congratulated the victors. “We lost because we simply didn’t play well. But this victory meant a lot to them. Their No 15 (Tuboi) is a swift player and it showed in the way he scored against the run of play. But he’s been doing this all through,” said Hall.

Salgaocar coach Stanley Rozario,whose team play their final match against Lajong,had another message for the team. “The North-East has long been a potential. This is a great moment for them as representation is more important for them,” said Rozario.