Taplejung, Aug 26: Everest Youth Club, Morang, has emerged as the champions of the International Invitational 2nd Taplejung Gold Cup. Morang clinched the title by defeating Salhes Youth Club, Siraha, 1-0, with Bijay Bhujel scorring the decisive goal within three minutes of the game.
The victorious Morang team was awarded a trophy, medals, certificates and a cash prize of Rs.5 lakh. Former Minister and Member of the House of Representatives Yogesh Kumar Bhattarai, among others, presented the prizes to the winning team.
The runner-up, Salhes Youth Club, received a cash prize of Rs.250,555 along with a trophy, medals and certificates. The awards were presented by Til Kumar Menyangbo, Khagensin Hangam, Nirmala Tawa, and other members of the Koshi State Assembly.
Sagarmatha secured their spot in the final by defeating the home team Sangharsha Sporting Yuba Club 2-1, and Salhes Youth Club advanced by beating Birtamod United Football Club Jhapa 4-2 at tie-braker.
Eight teams, including the departmental team Tribhuvan Army Club, Butwal Lumbini Football Club and Kanchenjunga Football Club from India’s Siliguri participated in the competition. The tournament commenced on Bhadra 3rd, coinciding with Gaijatra.
Devraj Gurung, Chairman of the organizing Lakhejatra Steering Committee, stated that the annual competition held during Gaijatra has not only promoted the district’s identity but also contributed to the development of sports tourism. #sports #taplejung
