It was a huge setback for the high-flying Lumbini FC, who came in the tournament after their stunning 1-0 victory over domestic giants Nepal Police Club in the Red Bull National League in Kathmandu. Karna Limbu, Bishal Rai ‘A’ and Yogesh Gurung scored for the Eastern team while Lumbini defender Rabi Silwal conceded another as Jhapa gave Lumbini the reality check.

After a goalless draw in the first half, the game came into life when Limbu put Jhapa ahead in the 50th minute. Limbu followed up teammate Rai’s shot that rebounded off the Lumbini custodian Dillip Chhetry to tap in for the goal. Rai doubled the lead in the 66th minute, slamming home from close after Karna Limbu delivered a perfect ball from corner. The miserable day for Lumbini continued when their defender Silwal inadvertently found his own net in the 77th minute in an attempt to clear the ball when the goalkeeper fumbled a shot from Karna.

Gurung completed the rout of Lumbini deep into the injury time scoring the fourth goal for Jhapa. The 87th minute substitute Gurung made full use of a pass from Karna to score the goal from close range. Jhapa coach Bhagirath Ale said his team was alert against the side who came into the tournament with a huge upset win over NPC. “They were a tough opponent and to our advantage they lost their composure after we scored first,” said Ale.

“Over confidence let the team down,” said Lumbini coach Yam Prasad Gurung. “Our players took Jhapa lightly on the back of their recent  win over NPC and draw over Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC) in the National League. That was a big mistake and cost us the game,” admitted the Lumbini coach.

MMC will take on Kanchanjunga Football Club of India.