Langsning FC produced a stunning second-half fightback on 6 August to claw back from two goals down and share the spoils in a 2-2 draw against Nongkseh SS&CC in a pulsating Group E clash of the 135th Durand Cup at a packed Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The Shillong Derby lived up to its billing, delivering drama, grit, and a five-minute second-half spell that completely flipped the contest.

First Half: Nongkseh Take Control

The opening exchanges were measured, with Langsning — the Men in Pink — gradually asserting themselves through energetic pressing and direct play. Their pace, long balls, and trademark long throws repeatedly stretched the Nongkseh backline. A clear chance arrived in the 17th minute when goalkeeper Guidle Syiemlieh was caught off his line, only for Banpynkhrawnam Nongkhlaw to produce a superb goal-line clearance.

Two minutes later, Syed Ahmed appeared to have scored a contender for goal of the tournament — a powerful right-footed curler into the top corner — but the assistant referee's flag cut the celebrations short for offside, with Nongkseh's defensive line executing the trap perfectly.

The disallowed goal proved pivotal. Nongkseh struck against the run of play in the 29th minute, as a misplaced midfield pass handed the visitors a swift counter, with Shano Tariang keeping his composure to slot home and give Nongkseh the lead. Nine minutes later, a goalkeeping error by Rajat Paul Lyngdoh — who failed to gather a loose ball near the byline — allowed Sheen Stevenson to pounce, and captain Hardy Nongbri calmly rolled the ball into an unguarded net to double the advantage. A goal-line clearance by Chesterpoul Lyngdoh in the 39th minute ensured Nongkseh carried their 2-0 lead into the break.

Second Half: Langsning's Five-Minute Blitz

Langsning emerged after the interval with renewed urgency and halved the deficit just three minutes into the second half. Chusrang C's characteristic long throw caused chaos in the penalty area, allowing Mebanshngain Kurkalang to rise highest and guide a looping header beyond the goalkeeper.

The equaliser followed just two minutes later. A pinpoint cross from Wadajied Kynsai Ryngkhlem found Syed Ahmed, who timed his run to perfection and powered a header past the advancing goalkeeper, completing a remarkable turnaround to make it 2-2.

A Frantic Finish

The quickfire double transformed the match into an end-to-end spectacle, with both teams committing forward in search of a winner. Langsning threatened from a Samuel free-kick, while Nongkseh remained dangerous on the counter. Bookings mounted as the challenges grew more robust. Nongkseh came agonisingly close to snatching all three points deep in stoppage time when Hardycliff Nongbri's header drifted narrowly wide of the post.

The 2-2 draw was ultimately a fair reflection of a fiercely contested derby that showcased attacking ambition and remarkable resilience from both sides. With the 135th Durand Cup group stage still unfolding, both clubs will need to regroup quickly ahead of their remaining fixtures.