The BoB Bhutan Premier League is entering its final stretch, with three matchdays remaining. Paro FC leads the table with 43 points. At the other end, the relegation picture remains open, with the bottom five facing relegation, while some clubs may be eligible for special consideration under the league regulations.
The BoB Bhutan Premier League is heading towards a decisive finish at both ends of the table.
Paro FC remain at the top with 43 points from 16 matches, three points ahead of Thimphu City. Paro have two matches remaining, while Thimphu City have one.
The title race, therefore, remains open as both sides look to finish their campaigns on top.
The positions from third to fifth have already been settled.
Thimphu FC are third with 31 points, followed by Transport United and RTC FC. Thimphu FC have one match remaining, while Transport United and RTC have completed their campaigns.
Transport United drew one-one with Drukpa FC at Changlimithang Stadium yesterday, while RTC ended their campaign with a five-one win over Tensung.
But it is at the other end of the table where the remaining matches could have added significance.
Under the BPL regulations, the bottom five teams are subject to relegation. That currently includes Drukpa FC, BFF Academy, Tsirang FC, Tensung FC and Ugyen Academy.
However, the regulations also provide special consideration for exemption from relegation for certain district-representative clubs.
The provision applies when there is only one BPL entry from the district, the representing club fulfils the AFC and BFF Club Licensing System, the club has not previously received an exemption, and the club has scope for development in the following years.
The designated BFF committees will validate the development aspect.
This means the final relegation picture may depend not only on the league standings, but also on whether any club meets the conditions for special consideration.
On the field, Drukpa FC are currently sixth with 24 points, while BFF Academy are on 19 points with two matches remaining.
Tsirang FC has completed their campaign on 16 points after losing four-one to Ugyen Academy, while Tensung FC finished on eight points.
Ugyen Academy, meanwhile, moved to seven points after their four-one win over Tsirang.
With the title yet to be decided and the relegation picture potentially influenced by the regulations, the final matches could determine much more than just the league champion.
Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
