KATHMANDU: Defending champions Nepal Police Club maintained their unbeaten run with a 1-0 win over Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC) while Nabil Three Star climbed two places up to fourth defeating the Nepal Armed Police Force (APF) Club 2-0 in the Martyrs Memorial A Division League here today.

Midfielder Bhola Silwal struck a superb goal in the 31st minute to give NPC their sixth victory in the league. NPC, who were forced to share points in three matches, stay atop the standings with 21 points from nine matches. Three Star benefited with MMC’s slip to climb up on a better goal difference despite tying on 17 points along with New Road Team.

NPC took lead in the 31st minute when Bhola capitalised on a weakly cleared ball from MMC defender inside the area. NPC coach Birat Krishna Shrestha said he was looking forward to their next crucial tie against Three Star after losing Ju Manu Rai and Parbat Pandey for double bookings.

Earlier, Santosh Sahukhala and Tanzanian Castory D Mumbara struck one goal each for Three Star. Santosh put Three Star ahead in the 27th minute after a silly mistake from APF goalie Chandan Sardar allowed the forward to score his ninth goal of the season. Chandan failed to grip an Anjan KC freekick which hit the bar and landed straight to Santosh’s feet. Mumbara struck in the 82nd minute on a rebound from Chandan after blocking a Sahukhala strike.

Mumbara, however, will miss the next match against NPC after receiving a yellow card for his celebration. Three Star coach Bal Gopal Maharjan said Mumbara’s absence in the midfield will certainly affect their game against NPC.

APF created two chances on goal in the opening moments. Arbindra Chaudhary skied a shot before Ganesh Lawati shot wide off the target

following a cross from skipper Kumar Thapa.

Monday’s matches have been cancelled after the demise of former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress leader Girija Prasad Koirala.