Dhulabari, Jhapa, Kartik 4: Manebhanjyang FC, the Indian Club from Darjeeling, secured their place in the semi-finals of the 8th International Invitational Rolling Challenge Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rashtriya Jagriti Club.

The match played at the Dhulabari Mabi Ground, was a physical affair marked by several disciplinary issues. Captain Sonam Jangpo Bhutia’s penalty kick in the 22nd minute, following a controversial foul by Rashtriya Jagriti’s Manindra Yakkha, proved to be the decisive goal.

Despite being reduced to ten men after Biren Pradhan’s sending-off, Manebhanjyang held on to claim the victory. Rashtriya Jagriti also saw Milan Rai sent off for a dangerous tackle on goalkeeper Sachin Subba, who was taken to the hospital for treatment.

The Rolling Challenge Cup continues tomorrow, with Sukuna United FC taking on Samrat Sporting Club. The final is scheduled for Kartik 10, where the champion will receive a cash prize of ₹3 lakh.