Thinley Namgay

Mandala FC thrashed Yangchenphug HSS FC 7-0 in the ongoing Thimphu dzongkhag women’s league at the Changlimithang Stadium yesterday.

Mandala dominated the game both tactically and technically. Following an early goal in the fourth minute, Mandala’s Sonam Wangmo went on to score a hat-trick.

Precise passing and ground coverage from Mandala added to the already troubled Yangchenphug. Sabatri Rai’s goal in the 20th minute and Ngawang Choki’s brace in 28th and 44th minutes gave Mandala a comfortable lead before halftime.

Phunsum Choden also scored the final goal of the game in the 78th minute.

Mandala’s skipper Jamyang Pelden said: “We expected to score more. The game was not up to our expectation. Our opponent is new in the tournament and we have national players on the team.”

She said that Sunrise FC was the only opponent they looked forward to playing in the tournament as they had better training and experienced players.

Yangchenphug’s captain Sonam Zangmo said the game was challenging as expected. “We had already decided to play defensive. Mandala is an established club and there are a lot of differences in the quality of players. However, we are optimistic about our upcoming matches.”

She added, “Despite the loss, for now, we are on track. We defeated Dechencholing FC by a lone goal recently earning the three crucial points.”

Six teams are taking part in the ongoing league that started on May 13. As of yesterday, six games were played with Sunrise FC leading with six points.

The district league winners will take part in the Women’s Championship.

Punakha, Paro, Wangdue, Mongar, Samdrupjongkhar, Sarpang, Gelephu, and Samtse are yet to start their leagues.

Motithang HSS FC will take on Desuung FC at 5pm today at the Changlimithang Stadium.