Himal Press 
Photo Courtesy: NSL
KATHMANDU: Ten-man Butwal Lumbini Club held Jhapa FC to a goalless draw in the second match of the Nepal Super League (NSL) at Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu on Sunday.
Jhapa dominated the match but failed to convert its chances against the resilient Lumbini-based side. Butwal Lumbini keeper Deep Karki saved Jhapa FC’s Alhaji Gero’s shot in the eighth minute. Deep rescued Butwal Lumbini again as he saved Mukhammad Isaev’s fierce strike from the edge of the box in the 13th minute. Jhapa missed another chance in the 22nd minute when Deep blocked Lazar Arsic’s attempt. He also punched away Azamat Abdullaev’s powerful header from the resulting corner.
Butwal Lumbini made its first serious attack in the 38th minute. However, Philip Adjah’s shot from the box edge was parried away by Jhapa goalkeeper Nemanja Lemajić.
The second half was a lackluster affair as both teams failed to create any serious chances.
Butwal Lumbini FC was reduced to 10 men after captain Arik Bista was given his marching orders for receiving a second yellow card in the 70th minute.
Butwal Lumbini keeper Deep Karki was adjudged player of the match. He received a check for Rs 30,000.
Kathmandu Rayzrs and Lalitpur City played a 2-2 draw in the first match of the third season of NSL that kicked off on Saturday.
Chitwan FC and Pokhara Thunders will play in the third match of the NSL on Monday.
A total of seven teams are participating in the franchise-based football tournament.
