By a Staff Reporter
Kathmandu – Defending champions Machhindra FC and newcomers Church Boys United FC settled for a goalless draw in an ongoing Martyr’s Memorial ‘A’ Division League.
Church Boys were the dominant side in the first half, but failed to break the deadlock. The woodwork stopped Aasish Chaudhary’s strike in the 12th minute of the match. Aasish Chapagain also missed a chance to put his team ahead in the 27th minute.
Machhindra FC faced a setback when Pujan Uperkoti received a direct red card for manhandling Joseph Owusu Bempah just 3 minutes before the first-half whistle. Although Joseph attempted to tackle Pujan, but the match referee Nabindra Maharjan booked Pujan the red card after he raised his elbow in anger.
In the second half, Machhindra replaced Bimal Gharti Magar with Saurav Limbu and relied on counter-attacks. However, they received several opportunities but failed to convert any. Church Boys, on the other hand, despite having a numerical advantage, failed to perform as expected.
With this tie, Church Boys continued their unbeaten streak, but it failed to climb to the top. Church Boys, who won the first three matches, were held to a goalless draw with Sankata in the previous outing.
Likewise, Machhidnra who is undefeated in their last three outings has accumulated 5 points from 5 matches. Meanwhile, Church Boys has earned 11 points from 5 matches.
