Jhapa XI clinched the Mai Valley Gold Cup football tournament with a 2-0 win over Nepal Armed Police Force (APF) Club here on Saturday.

Karna Limbu and Yogesh Gurung struck either side of the break to seal the victory. Limbu put Jhapa ahead in the 26th minute, capitalizing on a pass from Bishal Rai before Gurung settled the nerves adding the second in the 76th minute. Gurung was adjudged man-of-the-match.

APF, who made it to the title showdown with a stunning 4-1 victory over Tribhuvan Army Club in the semi-finals, had themselves to blame for the outcome after squandering a number of scoring opportunities. APF skipper failed to convert in a solitary encounter with Jhapa goalkeeper Kishor Giri midway through the first half. Apart from the two goals, Jhapa were deny more goals by superb goalkeeping from APF custodian Sabin Regmi. Jhapa secured the final berth after defeating Rupandehi in the semi-finals.

Champions Jhapa took home Rs 3,50,000 and the runners-up APF received Rs 1,75,000. Jhapa goalkeeper Kishor Giri collected both the best player and best goalkeeping honours. Jhapa striker Karna Limbu won the highest goal-scorer award, while Sudip Shilpakar of APF was named the best defender. 

Likewise, Najendra Limbu of Jhapa was declared the best midfielder, Manish Thapa of hosts Mai Valley FC the rising star and Jhapa coach Bhagirath Ale the best coach of the tournament. In all 10 teams-seven from Nepal and three from India-took part in the knockout tournament.