Sunsari, July 16

Army Youth Club won the title of the Chief Minister Cup Province League Football Tournament here at the Dharan Stadium today.

The Jhapa-based Army club defeated Belbari Football Club 2-1 in the final match. Rejit Majhi and Bikesh Subba scored one goal each for the Army team, while Saurav Karki replied for Morang-based Belbari FC. Majhi gave an early lead to Army with a goal in the second minute of the match, while Karki levelled the scores for Belbari in the 67th minute.

At a time when the match was heading towards a draw in the regulation period, Bikesh Subba found the back of the nets three minutes from time to seal the victory for Army.

Saurav Karki of Belbari was named the man of the match and he earned Rs 10,000.

Along with the running shield made of four-kilogramme silver and a berth in the ANFA President’s Cup, Army received Rs 500,000. Runners-up Belbari got Rs 300,000. Bhushan Subba of Belbari was declared the best player of the tournament and he received Rs 100,000.

Army Club dominated the individual awards claiming four out of five categories — Manoj Pradhan (goalkeeper), Bikesh Limbu (striker), Biman Prasad Rai (defender) and Prabesh Katwal (coach). Umesh Rai of Dharan Football Club was named the best midfielder.

The five best individuals received Rs 25,000 each.

A total of six teams took part in the tournament organised by All Nepal Football Association under the auspices of Province-1 government. Province-1 Chief Minister Sher Dhan Rai handed over prizes to the winners of the tournament.