Saroj Dahal’s goal nine minutes after the interval proved to be the difference between the two sides on home ground. Sahara coach Kiran Shrestha, who also archetected win over league runners-up Machhindra Football Club in semi-finals, praised his players for their showing and said his players’ hard work and determination were pivotal in the success.

“Our perseverance and efforts have paid off. Words cannot describe how I and the players feel following this historic win,” said the delighted Sahara coach.  MMC coach Hari Om Shrestha said that his side’s defeat was unexpected and he felt bitterly disappointed. “We just could not play our normal game. We were not expecting to lose the game and we are really disappointed,” said Shrestha.

The MMC coach added that his side, who had lifted the Aaha title three times previously, went into the final with great confidence especially after a 5-0 rout of Police Club 5-0 in semi-finals. “Our form was good going but we just could not perform on the day.”

The hosts put up a resolute display in the first-half as MMC struggled to create scoring opportunities. Sahara, who thumped MMC 4-1 in last edition’s quarter- final, broke the deadlock in the 54th when a Dahal header on Hemanta Gurung corner nestled into the roof of the net.

“It is the first time we have won the trophy in 12 years which makes our win all the more special,” said Sahara coach Shrestha.  “We managed to restrict MMC strikers throughout the 90 minutes and we capitalised when we had the chance to score,” added the Sahara coach.

The hosts earned Rs 3,51,000 along with the winners trophy while MMC received Rs 2,01,000. Sahara’s Hemanta Gurung was adjudged best player of the tournament while winning coach Kiran Shrestha grabbed the best coach award.