Pokhara, March 1:

Nabil Three Star Club set dates with Carlsberg Manang Marsyangdi Club (MMC) in the final of the fifth Aaha Gold Cup football tournament with a 3-0 win over the hosts Sahara Club at the Pokhara Stadium today.

Sanjeev Budhathoki, Chidiadi Chyna and Uttam Gurung scored a goal each within the first 27 minutes. Budhathoki opened the scoring when he converted a pass from Vishan Gauchan in the 15th minute. Chyna doubled their lead capitalising on a defensive error from Hem Gurung three minutes later. Gurung added third, again on Hem Gurung’s mistake in the 27th minute.

Three Star were without injured Yugal Kishor Rai and skipper Surendra Tamang. Rai and Tamang were injured during their quarter-final match against Knight Chess Club and are doubtful for the the final on Saturday. Vishan Gauchan won the Adidas man of the match award.

Three Star coach Bal Gopal Maharjan made no comments on the relatively weaker opponent. Sahara Club’s coach Dambar Gurung said that their opponent (Three Star) capitalised on their weak defence. “We conceded the last two goals on our defensive lapses,” said coach Dambar adding that Three Star could not pierce their defence in the second half after he strengthened it.

MMC entered the final beating APF Team on Wednesday.