Lallianzuala Chhangte produced a commanding performance with three goals and an assist as defending champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant swept aside Sreenidi Deccan 6-0 in the IFA Shield on Wednesday.
Playing at the Mohun Bagan ground, the Mariners made a powerful start to their title defence despite missing three India internationals. Sahal Abdul Samad, Lalengmawia Ralte and Manvir Singh were unavailable after leaving the camp for national team duty.
Mohun Bagan still named a strong side, and it took only eight minutes to break through. Jamie Maclaren created the opportunity for Abhishek Suryavanshi, who converted to put his team ahead.
Chhangte then took control of the contest.
The summer signing from Mumbai City FC initially operated from the left flank but became increasingly influential after switching sides. He scored his first goal in the 44th minute, finishing from a Miguel Figueira cross to give Mohun Bagan a comfortable advantage heading into the break.
There was no respite for Sreenidi Deccan after the restart. Chhangte struck again in the 52nd minute before completing his hat-trick just five minutes later. His quick-fire double effectively ended any hope of a comeback and put the Mariners firmly in charge.
Mohun Bagan continued to push forward despite having the result under control.
Sandeep Malik, who came off the bench after helping the club win the Calcutta Football League this month, added the fifth goal in the 80th minute.
Two minutes later, new signing Lee Erwin completed the scoring. Chhangte turned provider this time, delivering a cross that Erwin headed home to make it 6-0 and cap an emphatic team performance.
The result gives Mohun Bagan a strong start as it looks to retain the IFA Shield, while Sreenidi Deccan must quickly recover from the heavy defeat.
Sreenidi Deccan next faces Indian Super League side NorthEast United on September 26. Mohun Bagan will also meet NorthEast United three days later.
Result: Mohun Bagan Super Giant 6 (Abhishek Suryavanshi 8’, Lallianzuala Chhangte 44’, 52’, 57’, Sandeep Malik 80’, Lee Erwin 82’) beat Sreenidi Deccan 0.
