Transport United defeated Ugyen Academy 2-1 yesterday in Punakha, and moved a step closer to winning the national league while Thimphu City are mathematically in the hunt after their win against Thimphu FC yesterday at the Changlimithang.
The picturesque Jigmethang Village was the background setting as Ugyen Academy fans came in full force to support their team. While Ugyen Academy looked to cause an upset in the title race, Transport United were confident that a win there will decide the championship.
Contrary to the hype pre kick-off, both teams were finding it hard to get anything going. Misplaced passes coupled with struggle to adapt to natural grass turf at the UA ground was the story for most part of the first half.However, as halftime approached, a deflected free kick from Kencho Tobgay flew into the net giving Transport a lucky break in the match. 1-0 is how the two teams went into the break.
The second half was an upbeat contest compared to the first half. While Ugyen Academy pushed for the equaliser, Transport United found little pockets to exploit Ugyen’s defensive line. Both teams, however, failed to capitalise on chances they created. As dusk approached, came the decisive goal in the match. A free kick from 30 yards out by Thinley Dorji settled the nerves in the Transport camp.
A late twist awaited though, a rare fumble from Bhutan’s number one, Hari Gurung, had Ugyen Academy thinking they can snatch a point from the game. However, Transport United held on during the final nervy moments and completed the win which made their manager one very happy man.
“With the win, we are sure to be champions. The free kick goal in the first half was a lucky break for us. Both the teams play in similar style. We were looking for long balls, so did they,” said Ngawang Dhendup, the Head Coach of Transport United. “After second goal, I thought we are champions but the blunder by our goal keeper made us nervous. But, we changed our defensive style and saw the game through.”
Ugyen Academy attributed their loss due to their main striker not being able to play the game.
“Our main striker Chhuma Dorji missed the game due to a dislocated elbow he suffered during the Thimphu FC game. There was a huge difference due to his absence. We couldn’t capitalise on the opportunities upfront. But the players did perform as I expected,” told Head Coach Kinley Dorji to BBS.
Meanwhile at the Changlimithang, Thimphu City proved to be too strong for Thimphu FC. A hat trick from Diwash Subba sealed a comfortable 3 – 1 win for Thimphu City. Despite the win, and with Transport United destined to win the league this time, Thimphu City might just need to try again next year.
