Tura, Jan 18: The girls’ football team of Ri Bhoi triumphed their way into the final after a convincing 5-1 victory over Eastern West Khasi Hills in the first semi final of U18 Girls’ Football Division of the 5th Meghalaya Games held at the P. A Sangma Football Field, Tura, on Thursday.

Showcasing their dominance right from the first whistle, it did not take long for the Ri Bhoi girls to open the scoreboard with a beautiful goal by Rimika Khongkai in the 3rd minute of the First Half. Continuing their momentum, Ri Bhoi girls doubled the score with a goal by Imaia Shylla in the 26th minute. With a spirit of comeback, Eastern West Khasi Hills almost equalised but the goal hit the woodwork in the 28th minute. However, didn’t have to wait long as 3 minutes later, they managed to pull one back with Rympeibasuk Syiemlieh’s goal in the 31st minute, ending the first half with a tight scoreline of 2-1.

The second half witnessed the Ri-Bhoi girls upping their game, not long their passing led to a goal at the 41st minute of the second half with a finish by Imaia Shylla. The dominance continued, the pep-talk of Ri Bhoi Coach did work. Ri Bhoi continued their one-two-one passes. All eyes were on Shylla now as she was seeking for a hattrick; the moment for the No. 7 came in the 49th minute. Even with a handful of supporters, the PA Sangma Stadium was loud with cheers and applause for her hattrick.

Eastern West Khasi Hills did get a chance here and there but the lack of confidence kept their tempo down with the goal difference increasing. But the Ri Bhoi girls’ continued to dominate. Not long after scoring the hattrick, Shylla put the final nail in the coffin and sealed her side’s spot in the final with a brilliant finish outside the box in the 57th minute.

However, right towards the end of the game, Shylla was badly fouled and stretchered off. The injured hattrick star is doubtful to play for the final scheduled to be held on Friday against the winner of the second Semifinal match. But, football is also a game full of miracles, the Ri Bhoi girls’ team would be praying for a miracle so that their Number 7 star can start their most important Gold Medal match.

Also Read: 5th Meghalaya Games | Day 3 | Ri Bhoi and South West Khasi Hills share spoils in women weightlifting

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