Aizawl, March 19 Shillong Lajong FC defeated Chanmari FC 2-1 thanks to a brace from Phrangki Buam, securing the top spot in the Indian Football League on Thursday.
Shillong Lajong now has seven points from four matches, ahead of Rajasthan United based on goal difference. Chanmari, meanwhile, are sixth with five points from as many matches.
Chanmari took an early lead through Christo Kamei (16'), before Buam scored twice in the closing minutes of both halves to secure the victory for the away team.
The match began with intense action and memorable saves from both goalkeepers. Shillong's Siwel Rymbai was particularly busy, saving shots from Suamsawnga and Brazilian player Jota early on.
However, Kamei breached Shillong's defense in the 16th minute with a stunning left-footed shot over the wall.
Chanmari continued to dominate possession and were the more attacking team, with Jota initiating most attacks from the left wing and putting Muasang under pressure.
Lajong equalized in the first half injury time. Everbrightson Sana managed to get past Papuia and scored from a long ball.
Although the danger seemed to have been averted, Chanmari goalkeeper Zothanmawia lunged to block the shot, forcing the referee to award a penalty.
Buam's powerful penalty went under the crossbar, but the ball still found the back of the net.
Chanmari began the second half in a similar attacking fashion. Amuana and Jota missed chances that could have put the game beyond Shillong.
With the introduction of Tremeiki alongside Buam, Lajong injected more pace into their attack and started creating more chances as the game reached its final stages.
Their efforts paid off when substitute Jakob made a run on the left flank and found Buam with a perfectly weighted cross.
Buam then scored past Zothanmawia. With just one minute of added time remaining, Shillong had pulled off a stunning victory.