Dharan, March 16:

Dharan ‘red’ entered the quarter-finals of the ninth Budha Subba Gold Cup football tournament with a 1-0 win over the visiting Kurseong XI of India here today.

Skipper Rishi Rai scored the solitary goal for the three-time finalists here. Rai converted on a header on a free kick from Nabin Neupane. Nabin and Sagar Thapa are playing for Dharan after Manang Marsyangdi Club opted out of the tournament.

The visiting Kurseong XI had only one chance, which was foiled by Dharan goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong three minutes from time. Chemjong punched away William Pradhan’s spectacular shot.

Dharan coach Dilliram Shrestha, who witnessed his team squander as many as six goal scoring opportunities, said that they would certainly be ousted in the next round if they don’t improve their game.

Meanwhile, the organisers have rescheduled Saturday’s game after Tribhuvan Army Club was stuck midway due to Tarai strike. After the changed schedules, African United will take on Thimpu XI on Saturday.

Also, NRT will replace Mahendra Police Club after the departmental team withdrew from the tournament. “They (MPC) said they have opted out of the event for the preparation of the upcoming AFC President’s Cup to be held in Pakistan during May 17-27.