MMC earned the awarded as referee penalised Yudha Shahi for a foul inside the area. Shrestha stepped in to convert from the spot. MMC, who have won the tournament twice already, will now take on African United Team on Wednesday.

Last year’s runner’s up TAC withstood a barrage of MMC attack but kept the game goalless in the first half. Bishal Rai alone wasted two scoring opportunities for the league champions MMC. More chances went begging after the resumption.

Yona Elias was fed by skipper Sagar Thapa only for the forward to apply a feeble shot on target. TAC custodian Bikash Malla then denied a powerful Rupesh KC attempt.

TAC also had fair number of scoring chances with Nawayug Shrestha heading agonisingly wide in the 33rd minute. Nawayug then missed out scoring in one-on-one with MMC goalie in the 44th minute.

TAC coach Babukaji Dhaubanjar said his players had put on a good show but lashed out on the referee. “The assistant referee was not up to the mark. They needlessly awarded the penalty for MMC,” Dhaubanjar said.

MMC coach Hari Om Shrestha said his side has not gelled yet. “My players were clearly lacking coordination,” he said. We are taking this tournament as preparation for the AFC President’s Cup.”

Nepal Police Club will take on Sahara Club of Pokhara on Tuesday.