By A Staff Reporter
Kathmandu, Dec. 26: A solitary goal from Jagajeet Shrestha helped Manang Marsyangdi Club beat Brigade Boys Club to record third consecutive win while Jawalakhel Youth Club and Sankata played out 1-1 draw on Thursday in the Martyr’s Memorial A Division League Football.
Defending champions Manang toppled overnight leader Machhindra Club to regain the pole position with nine points. Machhindra are with six points in the second position. Brigade are at ninth place with one win and two defeats.
In the match played at Anfa Complex, Satdobato, Jagjeet’s 25 minute goal was enough for 10-man Manang to register win over Brigade.
Jagajeet scored in the rebound ball off Vidal Luis Chissano which hit the bar before finding the former national team playmaker’s feet. Jagajeet, who has been playing football in Australia, returned Nepal to play the league.
Brigade have the opportunities to score in the early minutes but their captain Anil Gurung’s shot went wide off post. Manang’s Bimala Rana was closer to goal in the 23rd minute but he squandered the chance.
In the second half, Brigade’s attempt to level the score from Jaya Gurung was foiled by goalie Deep Karki in the 52nd minute. Femi Joshua Adewumi’s shot in the post was saved by Brigade’s custodian Bishal Sunar. Striker Bimal again squandered to score in one-to-one situation as goalie Bishal dived to save his chip ball in 66th minute.
Manang were one man down in the 73rd minute after Ekraj Budhathoki faced red card for bringing down Brigade’s Bijay Gurung inside box. Brigade, however, failed to take advantage of 10-man Manang as latter tightened their defence by substituting Jagajeet for defender Aditya Chaudhary.
Manang beat APF Club 2-0 and Tribhuvan Army Club 1-0 in their first two games.
At Dasarath Stadium, Jawalakhel shared the points with Sankata Club to remain unbeaten in the league. Sankata took the lead in the 36th minute from Laxman Ruchal’s free kick goal from 35 yard. Ruchal’s low shot went straight into the post as Jawalakhel’s defence failed to judge the ball.
Jawalakhel restored the parity in the 72nd minute from the goal off Dady Juniour Wamba. He headed home the free kick ball off substitute striker Hari Kathayat.
With a draw, Jawalakhel have five points from one win and two draws. Jawalakhel held Three Star Club to goal less draw while defeated Saraswoti Youth Club 1-0 earlier.
With one win, one draw and one loss Sankata are at seventh position with four points. Sankata suffered 2-0 loss against Chyasal Youth Club and 1-0 loss and beat New Road Team 1-0 in their first and second matches.