The defending champions dominate proceedings to reclaim the third spot in top-flight. Manang Marshyangdi's Anjan Bista shoots the ball during their Martyrs Memorial 'A' Division League match against NRT at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato, Lalitpur, on Sunday. Photo Courtesy: ANFA
Anjan Bista scored twice in either half following a Bimal Rana opener before Daya Nanda Singh found himself on the scoresheet as Manang Marshyangdi Club humbled New Road Team 4-1 in their Martyrs Memorial 'A' Division League match at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato, Lalitpur, on Sunday.
The match, originally scheduled for Saturday, was played a day later after the national football governing body made changes to the league fixtures citing technical reasons.
The match got off to a brisk start with both clubs showing attacking intent in the first 20 minutes. The defending champions then found their stride and gradually dominated the proceedings. Nishan Limbu wasted a glorious chance in the 24th minute with the goal gapping, while Ekraj Budhathoki spurned another five minutes later.
But Rana gave them a lead 10 minutes from half-time. After collecting a neat pass from Kamal Shrestha, he finished it off into the back of the net.
The eight-time champions continued pressure on the NRT and were awarded a penalty two minutes before the break as Bista was brought down inside the area. The Manang forward stepped up to take the spot-kick himself and doubled their lead.
Bista marked his brace in the 65th minute after making the best use of Vidal Luis Chissano's assist to extend their cushion to three goals.
Sakal Regmi pulled one back for NRT in the 89th minute. But Manang continued to press hard and Daya Nanda Singh found the net after being put through by Luis in the added time to seal a 4-1 win which reinstated them to the third place in the standings with 22 points from 11 matches. NRT find themselves eighth with 15 points.
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