By Sachit Subba • Football • May 18, 2025 13:02 PM • 122 views
Kathmandu — Shree Tushal Youth Club's grip on Martyrs' Memorial 'B' Division League survival is hanging by a thread following a 2-0 defeat at the hands of an in-form Jhapa Football Club on Sunday at Dasharath Stadium.
With just one game remaining and only 11 points from 12 matches, Tushal's chances of avoiding the drop to the third tier now rest not only on their own final-day result but on outcomes elsewhere. Pradeep Budhathoki was the tormentor-in-chief for Jhapa, netting both goals to send Tushal plunging toward relegation.
After a goalless first half, Budhathoki opened the scoring in the 59th minute, capitalizing on defensive miscommunication in the Tushal backline. As the game edged into stoppage time, he struck again with a low, composed finish to put the result beyond doubt and lift Jhapa to fourth place with 18 points.
The loss confirmed second-from-bottom Tusal as the only club still within reach of relegation. In contrast, six other clubs — Jhapa, Birgunj United, Chyasal Youth Club, Madhyapur Youth Association, Bansbari Club, and Saraswati Youth Club — have mathematically secured their second-tier status. They join previously confirmed safe clubs, such as Planning Boys United, Shree Bhagwati Club, and Boys Union Club. Planning Boys have already claimed the championship, while Bhagwati and Boys Union remain in contention for the runner-up spot.
Four teams—Tushal, Ranipokhari Corner Team (RCT), Shree Kumari Club, and Brigade Boys Club—are fighting for survival with just one round of fixtures left in the relegation picture. Elsewhere on Sunday, Madhyapur Youth Association edged Bansbari Club 1-0 at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato. Sahil KC delivered the decisive blow in the 65th minute, lifting Madhyapur to seventh in the table and further solidifying their safety. The relegation race could be settled as early as Monday. Shree Kumari Club will take on Saraswati at Dasharath Stadium, while Brigade Boys will face Chyasal Youth Club at the ANFA Ground. Both matches kick off at 3:30 PM. Should Shree Kumari and Brigade Boys both manage wins, Tusal will be relegated regardless of their final match result. The tension is palpable as the 'B' Division League nears its dramatic conclusion — and for Tusal, the clock is ticking louder than ever.
