Two players scored their first hat-tricks for the club as Thimphu City FC beat Paro Rinpung FC 10-1 at Paro.
Thimphu City FC, as expected, proved to be an unmatched opponent for the hosts, as it did in the reverse encounter back in July. City has now scored five goals or more in a single game for the sixth time this season, ninth since Ngawang’s takeover of the club. Since beating Paro United 13-0 and 1-16 in the 2019 edition, the reds have not scored more goals against any team than Paro Rinpung (15-0 and 1-10).
Sonam Tenzin’s left-footed inswinger towards the second bar was a goal that any goalie would find it difficult to stop. After opening his account for the first time in eight appearances this season, the 21-year-old defender went on to score his first hat-trick since joining the club in 2017. Indeed, he will be grateful to his captain, Tshering Dorji, for letting him take the penalty over the other usual takers, to achieve the landmark.
The other player to score a hat trick for the club for the first time was Karma Sonam. With three goals and three assists, he joined this season’s elite club of players who were directly involved in at least five goals in a single game for City. He follows Bumlay (four goals and two assists against Paro Rinpung), Orgyen (two goals and four assists against Gelephu) and Dawa (two goals and three assists against High Quality United). The midfield sensation was picked man of the match and one of his goals the moment of the match.
Nima, Bumlay, Sherub and Tshagay all scored a goal each. This was Sherub’s first goal in six appearances since returning from a lengthy lay off due to injury.
The game also marked the end of TCFC’s three-game streak of clean sheets. In 13 games, the league leaders have only kept five clean sheets in 2021. Only through outscoring opponents was City able to get points, demonstrating that attack is the greatest form of defence.
City will take on Tensung next on August 29.
