Jakrem SC made history on Wednesday evening by winning the first-ever Meghalaya Women’s State League (MWSL) title, overturning a one-goal deficit to defeat Na Rympei Football Academy 2-1 in a pulsating final at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo. Na Rympei, representing the Ri-Bhoi District Sports Association, took an early lead in the 14th minute through forward Pynhun Shulet, capitalizing on a rare lapse in Jakrem’s defense. However, Jakrem, playing under the Mawkyrwat District Sports Association, staged a determined comeback in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when a Na Rympei defender inadvertently deflected the ball into her own net, leveling the score. The decisive moment came in the 72nd minute when Iaphisha Marbaniang fired a looping strike from the left wing, sealing the victory and securing Jakrem’s historic championship triumph.
The final attracted thousands of spectators, with dignitaries including Principal Secretary Frederick Roy Kharkongor (IAS), Assistant Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Paia B War Nongbri, Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) President Hamletson Dohling, and MFA General Secretary Sunesh Syiem in attendance. Jakrem’s journey to the title was marked by resilience, having also overturned a deficit in the semifinals to beat Laitkor SC 2-1. Despite Na Rympei’s spirited performance and Pynhun Shulet’s near-goal attempt in the second half, Jakrem’s determination proved decisive. Individual accolades went to Iaphisha Marbaniang, named Player of the Final, and Sunalinda Iawren, awarded Player of the Tournament. The Golden Boot was claimed by Iaraplang Nongrum of Laitkor with 21 goals, while Ionaris Khongsit of Mawlum Tyrsad SC received the Golden Glove for four clean sheets.
Jakrem received a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh for their victory, while Na Rympei earned Rs 1 lakh as runners-up. Launched on September 20, the inaugural MWSL featured 34 matches across five venues, highlighting top women’s football talent from across the state. The success of the tournament, with finalists hailing from outside Shillong, signals a promising future for women’s football in Meghalaya.