Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: FC Chitwan secured a 2-0 victory over Pokhara Thunders in the Nepal Super League (NSL) at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu on Monday.
Chitwan took the lead in the 14th minute when Shishir Lekhi left a cut-back pass from Victor Mansaray, allowing Nodir Mavlonov to take the shot. The Uzbek midfielder unleashed a powerful shot, which took a slight deflection off a Pokhara defender and kissed the net.
Lekhi had an opportunity to double Chitwan’s lead in the 31st minute, but his powerful shot was saved by Pokhara goalkeeper Priso Njanga.
Pokhara failed to create any meaningful chances in the first half.
Chitwan continued its attacking intent in the second half. Victor Mansaray had the opportunity to score the team’s second goal in the 49th minute. However, his header from Torric Jebrin’s corner went just wide.
Pokhara created its first notable move in the 53rd minute when Joe Aidoo found himself in a shooting position. However, his powerful 35-yard strike sailed inches over the crossbar. Pokhara created another move four minutes later, but Stephane Binong missed a header from Samir Tamang’s cross.
Chitwan crafted a beautiful move in the 60th minute when Chhiring Gurung found Victor unmarked. But the US forward shot straight at the Pokhara goalkeeper Priso.
Niraj Chaudhary sealed the victory for Chitwan in injury time. Victor played a perfect pass into Chaudhary’s path on the counter-attack, and the substitute slotted a beautiful finish into the far post to secure all three points for his side.
This was also Chitwan’s first-ever win against Pokhara in three seasons of the NSL.
