Santosh Sahukhala’s lone goal in the 22nd minute ultimately turned out to be the decider in the hard fought title showdown. After Rajin Dhimal’s long pass was headed by Bijay Gurung to Sahukhala, the forward made no mistake slotting the ball past MMC custodian.

The title triumph for the Lalitpur-based outfit was a continuation of their domination over MMC in the Aaha Gold Cup finals. In their previous two final meetings, Three Star had defeated MMC 4-3 in the tie-breaker and 1-0 in the fith and ninth editions respectively. Three received a cash purse of Rs 351,000 while runners-up MMC walked away with Rs 201,000.

Three Star’s jubilant coach Anjan KC said a good performance in the first half was the foundation of their victory. “We did well in the first half. but they (MMC) put pressure on us in the second and we were not able to score as many goals as we would have liked to,” said KC. Three Star had overcame Nepal Police Club and MMC had edged Far Western Football Club in the semi-final.

In the see-saw final, Three Star had dominated the first half but it was MMC who had come out all guns blazing the second after they were hit hard by Sahukhala’s goal.

MMC, the winner’s of the second third and 10th edition looked exhausted and were not able to convert the chances that had come their way.

MMC coach Raju Kaji Shakya said playing continuous matches was the reason behind their defeat. “We had to play two matches in as many days and the players were exhausted,” said Shakya. “We also squandered many goal scoring chances.”

Three Star also ruled in individual award with Bijay Gurung named the best player of the tournament. He was rewarded with a motorcycle. Kiran Chemjong, Bishnu Sunuwar and KC of Three Star were named the best goal keeper, defender and coach respectively.

Anil Gurung of MMC (striker), Hemanta Thapa of Far Western (midfielder) were the other winners in individual categories. The best individuals received Rs 10,000 each. Also Gurung and Sujal Shrestha of MMC , the highest scorers of the tournament received Rs 15,000 each. They had scored three goals each.