Jhapa, March 7

Hosts Rumpum Jhapa-XI came from a goal down to beat Sikkim United FC of India 2-1 and advanced to the semi-finals of the third Rumpum Jhapa Gold Cup Football Tournament here at the Domalal Stadium in Biratmod today.

Khamir Gilson Kandangwa scored a goal for Jhapa, while Jigme Dorjee Bhutia of Sikkim scored an own goal after Sikkim took a lead through Mayal Dok Lepcha’s goal. Jhapa will take on Ruslan Three Star in the semi-final match.

Lepchha opened the scoring for Sikkim in the 17th minute as he headed home utilising Kunal Tamang’s free kick. However, Kandangwa levelled the tally in the 24th minute scoring from the box.

Finally, Bhutia netted into his own nets in the 42nd minute in his bid to clear Bishwas Shrestha’s shot from the box.

Both the teams also wasted goal scoring opportunities in the match.

Jhapa’s Kandangwa wasted a chance in the 26th minute, while Devendra Tamang’s shot in the 59th minute was punched out by Sikkim goalie Pintso Sherpa.

Similarly, Sikkim’s Mayal Dok Lepcha shot inches wide of the target after receiving a pass from Dawa Sherpa in the 31st minute and Jhapa’s goalkeeper Kishor Giri stood firm to deny Palsang Lama in the 71st minute.

Bishwas Shrestha of Jhapa was named the man-of-the-match and he got Rs 25,000.

Sikkim’s coach Pema Gyasto Bhutia said his players failed to cope up with the condition as the match was played on artificial turf. “At the same time, Jhapa had the advantage of home ground and local supporters,” said Bhutia. Similarly, Jhapa’s coach Prabesh Katwal said his side failed to perform as per expectation after conceding an early goal. “We came under pressure after conceding the goal and as a result we were not able to put our best game. However, we will come strong against Three Star,” said Katwal.

On Thursday, Nepal Police Club will take on Tribhuvan Army Club in last quarter-final matches.