By a Staff Reporter
Kathmandu – Roshan Rana Magar’s sensational goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time propelled Manang Marshyangdi Club to a 1-0 victory over FC Khumaltar in an ongoing Martyr’s Memorial ‘A’ Division League at Dasarath Stadium on Thursday.
With this crucial win, Manang Marshyangdi Club climbed to the fifth position in the league table, amassing a total of 31 points from 23 matches.
Despite being the stronger side, Khumaltar had a stroke of bad luck throughout the game. They had an opportunity to take the lead in the 55th minute with a penalty kick, but their recent signing, Alan Thapa, failed to convert the golden opportunity. The penalty was awarded to Khumaltar after Manang’s Ramesh Thapa brought down Shyam Murmu inside the box.
Khumaltar’s hopes were further dashed in the 58th minute when their forward, Shyam Murmu, was stopped by MMC’s goalkeeper, Deep Karki, in a one-on-one situation. Just seven minutes later, Khumaltar missed another chance to score when Rajib Lopchan chipped the ball, only to hit the crossbar. Deep Karki quickly collected the rebound, saving Manang once again.
Manang nearly scored an own goal in the 74th minute. Deep Karki was far from his position when Aasish Gurung’s clearance almost found the back of the net. Fortunately for Manang, the ball struck the crossbar, denying Khumaltar a goal.
In the dying moments of the match, Roshan Rana Magar emerged as the hero for Manang. With an impressive strike from outside the box in the 90+4th minute, he secured all three points for his team.
The defeat dealt a severe blow to FC Khumaltar’s chances of avoiding relegation. They continue to find themselves at the bottom of the league table with 24 points from 23 matches, making it increasingly likely that they will be relegated.
Earlier, Nepal Police Club beat New Road Team 1-0, keeping themself in the fourth position. Thanks to the header from Moses Twum. Meanwhile, the Himalayan Sherpa Club and Friends Club played a goalless draw at Chyasal Stadium.
