Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Wasteful Church Boys United was held to a goalless draw by Nepal APF Club in the Martyrs Memorial National ‘A’ Divison League at the Dashrarath Stadium on Monday.
Although Church Boys United put the departmental side under pressure, Nepal APF’s Japanese stopper Yuya Kuriyama’s heroics disappointed the top-flight newcomers.
After the draw, Church Boys is third in the league table with 13 points from seven games. Nepal APF is fifth position with 11 points from seven games.
Church Boys, without a manager after Pradeep Humagain’s resignation, had chances to score in both halves of the match. Ashish Chaudhary’s powerful shot was saved by the Nepal APF goalie in the 12th minute. Church Boys missed another opportunity to lead after the half-hour mark as Joseph Owusu Bempah’s cross from Ashish Chapagain’s pass sailed over the bar.
Subash Gurung failed to beat Yuriyama in the 47th minute when in a one vs one situation. Likewise, Bempah’s header flew over the post in the 67th minute.
Yuriyama also saved a powerful shot from Indian midfielder Gangadeep Singh. Church Boys was unfortunate as Bempah’s freekick in injury time hit the bar.
Nepal APF Club had few opportunities but failed to make them count.
Nepal Police Club gets first win
Nepal Police Club defeated Friends Club 3-1 in another match of the league played at the ANFA Complex on Monday. Buddha Bal Tamang scored two goals for the departmental side, while Moses Gyabah Yum added one to give Nepal Police the first win in seven games.
Nepal Police Club, which was staring at relegation after collecting only one point in its first six games, fielded its two African recruits against Friends Club. Along with Yum, Jo Aido also debuted for the departmental side on Monday.
After the win, Nepal Police has climbed a notch to 13th in the table, while Friends has dropped to 14th. Both teams have four points each.
