“You Feel It in the Streets”: How Shillong Lives and Breathes the Derby

In Shillong, football isn’t confined to stadium walls, it spills on to the streets, cafes, and conversations. On Tuesday evening, as Shillong Lajong FC won over Rangdajied United FC 3–1 in the Shillong Derby, the result was only part of the story. What mattered more was what it meant, to the fans, to the city, and to the deep-rooted football culture that pulses through Meghalaya.

The attendance was estimated at 8,500, with supporters flooding into the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium hours before kickoff. “You don’t miss this match, not in Shillong,” said a Lajong supporter. “Even if you’re neutral, you go, because it’s not just a game, it’s our game.”

The first half was tense, both sides probing for control. Just before the break, Everbrightson Mylliempdah pounced on a loose ball in the box to give Lajong a 1–0 lead. His celebration, the famous ‘SIUUU’, was met with thunderous approval from the crowd, echoing through the hills and sending waves of excitement through the stands.

For an 11-year-old attending his first derby, it was a moment he won’t forget. “I have seen that celebration on TV, but watching it live was the best thing ever. I shouted SIUUU so loud, I want to play for Lajong one day,” he said, gripping his homemade flag.

The goal sparked scenes all across the stadium. “When that ball went in, the whole stand just exploded,” said a Lajong supporter. “We have waited for this kind of moment.”

The drama continued after halftime. Rangdajied equalised in the 58th minute through Mebanshngain Kurkalang, briefly silencing the home fans. But Lajong struck back quickly, Damaitphang Lyngdoh restored the lead in the 66th minute, and Gladdy Kharbuli sealed the 3-1 win with a counterattack goal in the 80th.

“There’s tension in every derby, but tonight it felt like we were in control,” said a 29-year-old Lajong supporter. “Once that third goal went in, we knew it was done.”

After the match, Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah reflected on what the victory meant for the team:

“Winning back-to-back matches is always special, but to do it in a high-stakes derby means a lot to all of us. These games are never about just one player or a single moment, they’re truly about the collective effort. Every one of my teammates gave their all, and we pulled together as one unit. We respect our opponents, and I feel grateful to be part of a team that believes in each other and puts teamwork above individual glory. Victories like this remind us to stay humble, keep working hard, and cherish these moments together.”

Asked whether the derby rivalry brought added pressure or extra motivation, Mylliempdah said:

“There’s no denying the rivalry adds a bit of pressure, but I think it brings out the best in us. It motivates everyone to raise their levels and focus even more on supporting one another on and off the pitch. We thrive on competition because it pushes us to be better, not just as players, but as sportsmen. At the end of the day, we play hard, respect our opponents, and learn from each battle, always remembering that humility is key, win or lose.”

On the impact of the home support:

“The fans were unbelievable today. Their energy was contagious, and you could feel the passion in every chant and cheer. They truly are our extra player on the field, and their support gives us that extra push when things get tough. We owe a lot to them for sticking with us through thick and thin. It’s a privilege to play in front of such dedicated supporters, and we always try to repay their faith with our commitment, teamwork, and respect for the game.”

As fans poured out of the stadium and into the night, many carried drums, flags, and their voices hoarse from ninety minutes of singing. “This is the derby. This is Shillong.” said a Lajong supporter while heading out of the stadium.

With this result, Shillong Lajong sit comfortably atop their group and have taken a major step forward in their Durand Cup campaign. But for many in Shillong, Tuesday’s win wasn’t just about the table. It was about pride, belonging, and the enduring spirit of a city where football still matters deeply.