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
