Jawalakhel Youth Club’s run of poor form continued after they fell to a shock 2-1 loss against relegation-threatened Nepal Police Club at the ANFA Complex as the second round of the Martyrs Memorial A-Division League began on Tuesday.

A week ago, Jawalakhel looked unstoppable as they had opened up a five-point lead at the top of 14-team standings. However, cracks are starting to appear in their hopes to win the maiden A-Division title.

Since they earned a narrow 1-0 win over surprise title contenders and league debutants Church Boys United on April 22, they are winless in three consecutive matches, losing two of them—both coming against bottom clubs including Himalayan Sherpa Club. Even their win against CBU was aided by a howler from goalkeeper Guillaume Yves Priso.

Despite their slump, they still finished the day at the top of the table with 24 points after second-place Three Star Club drew with Khumaltar Youth Club 2-2.

But Satdobato—who are just two points behind—are hot on their heels and could overtake them if they defeat the struggling Sherpa on Wednesday.

Ghanaian Moses Gyabaah Twum put Police in front in the 35th minute when he put his header from the crowded box into the back of the net.

Lebanon forward Ahmad Hijazi doubled the Police’s lead from a counter attack brilliantly chipping over Jawalakhel goalkeeper Anish Deula who had come off the line to make the clearance as the departmental side avenged their 6-1 first leg loss.

Bipin Kandel pulled one back for Jawalakhel when his cross deceived the Police back line.

Police moved out of the relegation zone after registering their second consecutive victory. They have 15 points and sit in 10th position.

At Chyasal Stadium, Three Star had to dig deep to rescue a point against the newcomers.

Laken Limbu put Three Star ahead after four minutes pouncing on a poor defending by Sanwil D Costa. The Indian defender’s poor clearance fell to unmarked Aditya Shakya who lifted the Limbu for a simple finish.

Messouke Oloumou equalised in the third minute of first half additional time scoring a free kick for his season-leading 11th goal.

Stephane Binong furthered Khumaltar’s advantage six minutes into the second half twisting the ball through two Three Star defenders and goalie Taha Mohamad after a good work from Oloumou.

But Shakya rescued Three Star from the spot kick after Rejin Subba handled the ball inside the penalty box.

The win denied Three Star a chance to move to the top of the table. They have 23 points.

Khumaltar stay at the bottom of the table with 14 points.