Church Boys go top with win over Machhindra, APF thump Army

Church Boys United defeated defending champions Machhindra Football Club 2-1 to climb to the top of the standings of the Martyr's Memorial A Division League 2023.

In the match at ANFA Complex in Satdobato, Anjan Bista gave Church Boys the lead in the 41st minute. Machhindra levelled through Omolaja Nurain Kareem's penalty kick in the 65th minute but Kamal Shrestha scored six minutes later to give Church Boys the victory.

Church Boys now have a three point lead over second-placed Jawalakhel Youth Club as the 16th round of the league draws to an end. Machhindra are fourth with 24 points.

In the other match at Dasharath Stadium, APF Football Club defeated Tribhuvan Army Football Club 3-0 in the departmental derby.

APF took the lead in the 41st minute when Army's substitute Youdha Shahi inadvertently put the ball into his own net. Armand Beadoum's shot had gone past rushing Army goalkeeper Bikesh Kuthu but hit the upright. A sliding Shahi in an attempt to clear the ball shot the ball into his own net.

APF's second goal was scored by Awas Lamichhane who took advantage of a defensive error by Army to bury it into the net in the 56th minute. Six minutes later, Nabin Lama danced past few Army defenders to secure all the three points.

The victory moves APF above Army in sixth place with 22 points while Army are a point below.