GANGTOK,: Despite huge expectations, Malaysian side KDN FC suffered an embarrassing 0-3 drubbing from local club Gangtok Himalayan at Paljor Stadium to unceremoniously exit from the 40th Governor’s Gold Cup.
The Sunday afternoon quarterfinal match was largely branded as a showpiece event featuring the professional football club from Malaysia with the audience expecting to witness top quality football.
However, KDN FC was simply not up to the game and failed to live up to the public’s expectations. The disappointment started as early as the 13th minute when Jasman Gurung gave the lead to Gangtok Himalayan SC.
Seven minutes later, Gangtok Himalayan’s foreign striker Maxwell doubled the lead after beating his marker and the rival goalkeeper with ease.
The half-time score was 2-0 in favour of Gangtok Himalayan SC.
Second half also saw the local side maintaining its pressure and creating goal scoring opportunities. Substitute Sangay Bhutia clinched the match with a fine strike midway in the second half.
Jasman Gurung was declared the ‘Man of the Match’.
With this victory, Gangtok Himalayan SC has entered the semi-final of the tournament while the Malaysian club booked an early flight home.
Chief Minister PS Golay paid a surprise visit to the ground and congratulated the Gangtok Himalayan SC team besides meeting the Malaysian squad. He announced cash prizes for the Gangtok Himalayan SC team members for their victory.
Team owner and Shyari MLA Tenzing N Lamtha accompanied the Chief Minister.
“The entire Gangtok Himalayan SC players, officials and members are overjoyed with the encouragement provided by the Chief Minister. His presence greatly motivated the players and team supporters. We thank the Chief Minister for his gesture and encouragement to the players and club,” said Lamtha.
Today’s Match
Quarterfinal
Northeast United vs Royal FC Dubai
Peep! 2 pm