Jhapa XI hammered Gazirchat Sporting Club (GSC) of Bangladesh 4-1 to enter the semi-finals of the 14th Aaha-Rara Gold Cup here at the Pokhara Stadium on Tuesday. 

Karna Limbu scored twice while Ganesh Khadka, Nagendra Limbu added one goal each in Jhapa’s convincing victory. Manik scored the only goal for the visitors. Jhapa will now take on Manang Marshyangdi Club in the semi-finals.

Limbu struck early in the sixth minute, scoring in a rebound close from the goalline after GSC goalkeeper Masoom blocked a shot from Khadka. The lead doubled 

in the 15th minute when Khadka struck on a cross from Yogesh Gurung. 

Jhapa players have been competing as a unit in national tournaments for a long time and they made the most of their coordination by adding the third goal in the 28th minute. Second goal scorer Khadka was the provider this time, feeding Nagendra inside the area before the midfielder slammed home the third.

Munik leased some life in GSC just three minutes after the resumption to reduce the deficit. Munik brilliantly headed home a corner for a goal that revitalised the GSC players. GSC began to play attacking football with some good passes but poor finishing cost them the match. 

It was rather Jhapa who put the issue beyond doubt after Limbu brought his second goal in the 74th. Limbu was later adjudged the man-of-the-match. GSC were replacing another Bangladeshi team Rahamatgunj MF Society but headed back home from 

their first game.

Jhapa coach Bhagirath Ale was all praise of his team. “We were quite unaware about the opponents but our boys did well,” said Ale expecting a tough match against title contenders Manang. GSC coach Anamul said his assembled side lacked coordination. 

“We came into the tournament collecting players from several clubs and it was 

all but certain that they would lack coordination. We had 

neither practice together nor played competitive matches,” said Anamul adding his 

players were not prepared enough according to the tournament level.

Hosts Sahara Club will take on Tribhuvan Army Club on Wednesday.