Yadanarbon-Yangon race in 2018?

Shan United winger Yan Naing Oo (red, at right) and Magwe defenders vie for the ball during their match last Friday. Photo – Shan United

YANGON (22 Jan 2018) – It is early season still but the indications are that this year’s Myanmar National League (MNL) 2018 crown will likely be a race between former champions Yadanarbon FC and also Yangon United.

After just two matches into the new season, Yadanarbon and Yangon are on first and second respectively at the top of the MNL standings where this week they were once again triumphant over their hapless opponents.

Yadanarbon thrashed Rakhine United 4-2 at the Mandalar Thiri Stadium while Yangon Untied beat Zwekapin United 2-0 at home.

Despite fielding only local players this season, Yadanarbon fought back from a goal down from Zaw Zaw Naing’s tenth minute strike for Rakhine United to score four times through Myat Kaung Khant (18^th minute), Hlaing Bo Bo (59^th), Myo Ko Tun (65^th) and Sithu Aung (91^st penalty).

Rakhine’s other goal was scored by Sunday Mathrew in the 58^th minute.

On the other hand, Yangon scored two late goals off Sekou Sylla (84^th minute) and Kyi Lin (91^st) to walk away 2-0 winners over Zwekapin United.

Elsewhere, defending champion Shan Untied registered their first win of the new MNL season when they beat Magwe 3-2 at the Thuwana Stadium.

GFA beat Myawady 3-0 at the Aung San Stadium as Hantharwady United edged newly promoted Sagaing 2-1 at the Grand Royal Stadium while Ayeyawady Untied and Southern Myanmar drew 2-2.

MYANMAR NATIONAL LEAGUE 2018 Current Standings