Butwal, March 29

Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club advanced to the semi-finals of the third Madan Bhandari International Gold Cup Football Tournament here today.

MMC came from a goal down to defeat Nepal Police Club 2-1 riding on a brace from Anjan Bista at the Manbigyan School grounds. MMC will now take on defending champions Sunaulo Sangam Club for a place in the final.

The departmental side took the lead in the 14th minute of the match when Tej Tamang scored the opening goal of the match. NPC maintained the lead in the first half but MMC bounced back strongly after the break and Bista scored twice inside 14 minutes to seal the victory. Bista, who joined MMC from Nepal APF Club last month, levelled the scores in the 71st minute when he found the back of the nets following a pass from foreign recruit Victor.

Bista then scored his second goal of the match in the 75th minute and MMC hung on the lead to make it to the last four. Fed by Victor from the corner area, Bista slammed home the winning goal. Bista was named the man of the match and he earned Rs 10,000.

On Friday, hosts Madan Bhandari Sports Academy will take on Ruslan Three Star Club in the first semi-final match.