Three matches end in draws as 19th round begins

All three matches of the Martyr's Memorial A Division League 2023 on Thursday ended in draws.

The first match between Manang Marsyangdi Club and Sankata Club ended in 2-2 draw. Another match between Machhindra Football Club and Friends Club also ended with the same scoreline.

Manang took the lead through Koffi Timothee Koudo in the 19th minute at Chyasal Stadium against Sankata. Sankata fought back in the match through Youssef Atriss in the 43rd but Koudo restored Manang's lead two minutes later. Manish Dangi's 51st minute strike levelled the game.

Manang are seventh with 23 points and Sankata a point below at 12th.

Prakash Budathoki gave Friends Club the lead against Machhindra in the 68th minute. Afeez Olawale Oladipo levelled the match three minutes later before Rafiq Aminu gave Friends the lead again in the 79th. Olawale levelled the game again four minutes later and the two teams had to settle for the draw at Dasharath Stadium.

The draw means Machhindra failed to close the gap with leaders API Power Church Boys United and are third with 31 points. Friends Club are pushed back into relegation zone with 21 points.

Jawalakhel Youth Club took the lead against New Road Team in the 37th minute through Sunil Khadka only for Lalnunzama's leveler in the 50th minute.

Jawalakhel could have topped the table with the win but are a point behind the leaders who have a game in hand. New Road Team are eighth with 23 points.