Sports

Armymen take on Police in Aaha final

Armymen take on Police in Aaha final

By Rup Narayan Dhakal

POKHARA: Two departmental teams, Nepal Police Club (NPC) and Tribhuvan Army Club (TAC) will clash for the title of the eighth Aaha Gold Cup Football Tournament here on Saturday. It would be their second title clash in Pokhara after last year's final, which NPC won 5-0 with four goals from striker Ju Manu Rai. The Armymen would look to avenge the humiliating defeat. The four times champion, policemenwould like to continue their success against TAC. NPC fought hard to reach the semi-finals coming out with a slim 2-1 win over hosts Sahara FC and the side struggled to beat Manang Marshyangdi Club 1-0 in last four. TAC eased past Machhindra FC 4-1 in the quarters and virtually became the title favorites defeating star studded New Road Team 2-1 in semi-finals. TAC coach Raju Kaji Shakya said his team will play a competitive football against NPC. Shakay said his side would be boosted with the arrival of skipper Bikash Malla, who joined the national Under-23 football squad at the 11th SA Games. NPC are hit by the injuries of their six players but the return of Ju Manu would lift them up morally. Ju Manu is making return in the team along with other key players who competed at the regional meet.