Bara, April 2

Church Boys United won the title of the 13th Jitpur-Simara Gold Cup Football Tournament here on Saturday.

Played under lights at the Simara Stadium, the A division newcomers United defeated 10-man Himalayan Sherpa Club 2-0 in the final, riding on goals from Milan Rai and Ashish Chapagain. Champions United received one million rupees along with the trophy, while runners-up Sherpa got Rs 500,000. Himalayan Sherpa were reduced to 10 men in the sixth minute of the match afterDiwas Uraw received the marching orders for a reckless foul on Ranjit Pande inside the penalty box. United took the lead in the 35th minute when Milan Rai converted a free kick from 35 yards out into a sensational goal.

Ashish Chapagain put the issue beyond doubt with the team's second goal in the injury time. Chapagain guided the ball alone from almost centre of the pitch in counter attack and slammed home to seal the victory for United. United defender Franklin Tala was named the player of the match.

The United also dominated the individual awards with defender Kamal Shrestha receiving the player of the tournament honour along with a TVS motorcycle. Also, goalkeeper Priso, defender Franklin Tala, midfielder Subash Gurung and coach Pradeep Humagain were named best individuals from United and they earned Rs 20,000 each. Himalayan Sherpa's Sushil Rai was declared the best forward, while Sunil Shrestha of Bharatpur Football Club was the highest scorer.

They received Rs 20,000 each.

Nava Janajagriti Club's Dilip Majhi was adjudged the emerging player and he earned Rs 15,000. Makawanpur-XI won the fair play award.

A version of this article appears in the print on April 3, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.