POKHARA: Hosts Sahara Football Club survived a late scare from Bishnu Gurung to reach the quarter-finals of the eighth Aaha Gold Cup Football Tournament defeating Rupandehi-XI 3-2 here at the Pokhara Stadium today.

Pushpa Chhetri scored a brace in the 35th and 80th minute while Bishnu KC struck in the 82nd. Bishnu Gurung scored both goals for Rupandehi in the dying moments of the match. Sahara were going along nicely with a 3-0 lead till the 82nd minute but Bishnu Gurung struck twice in eight minutes to give Rupandehi a life in the match. The hosts will now play title favourites Nepal Police Club who are already in the last eight with a bye.

Despite a dominating

first half show, Sahara waited

till the 35th minute to get

their first goal. Pushpa Chhetri struck close from the goalline after Rupandehi goalkeeper Suman Legal and defender Kiran Gurung erred to take hold of a long cross.

Going into the second half with a 1-0 lead, Sahara kept on piling pressure on the visiting team and their hard work was paid off in the 80th minute with Pushpa headin home a long cross from Suhil KC. Two minutes later Bishnu KC struck from inside the area and Sahara were heading safely into the last eight.

However, Rupandehi bounced back in the match with goals from Bishnu Gurung in the 83rd and 92nd minute but their late onslaught ended with the final whistle. Earlier, Ashok Pun missed on a goal scoring opportunity close from the line. Sahara coach Kiran Shrestha appreciated the opponent’s performance and also expressed contentment over his team’s showing. Rupandehi coach Yam Gurung said his players lacked coordination and didn’t supply the ball well.

Machhindra Football Club, who are playing their maiden Aaha Gold Cup, will take on Gorkha United Club of Dehradun on Wednesday.