Three more points secured at Changlimithang as Thimphu City continue to take turns with Transport to be on the summit.
Dawa Tshering’s deft pass from a freekick found Tshering Dorji unmarked, and the reds took the lead in the 14th minute. 10 minutes later Tensung’s Nidup was forced to commit an error inside his own box, allowing Kencho Tobgay to double the lead. Nyakam has now scored for the third consecutive time against Tensung since joining us in 2020. Dawa Tshering scored the evening’s third goal from a freekick within the six-yard area after the handball by goalie at the half-hour mark.
The game appeared to be over, but the second half was a different story as opponents pressed hard to get back. After the game Ngawang Dendup said that Tensung filled gaps in the defence, denying the reigning champs any scoring opportunities. “We don’t want to keep the ball in our half but our opponents were successful in pressing us. So they did not give us much room in the second half.” However a well constructed through pass from Orgyen sent Karma Shedrup racing behind defenders with only the goalie standing between him and the net. City’s four goals appeared unanswered until a blunder at the back allowed Tensung to pull one back in the 86th minute.
While the boss may be pleased to collect three points from the game, he will also be worried as he was forced to make four non-tactical changes. At least four players were injured during the game and had to be replaced immediately. It’s a major blow for Ngawang, especially considering City’s upcoming match is against Transport United.
Injury Update
Following what seemed to be a hamstring pull, Kinga Rabgay was replaced by Karma Sonam before the first goal. Tenzin Norbu had a knee injury shortly before the break and could not continue the game. Sonam Tenzin was forced to be replaced by Lungtok Dawa, who had just returned from injury. The severity of the injuries they sustained can only be established after a thorough examination.
In the 84th minute, Nyakam was taken to the hospital after colliding with Tensung’s captain. He may have a broken collar bone, which will require an x-ray to confirm.
Thimphu City will face Transport United next on June 30.
