Red- hot Lalitpur City FC stretched their winning streak to 3 games with a hard fought victory over Butwal Lumbini in the Nepal Super League at Dashrath stadium Wednesday.

Lalitpur City FC ‘s crucial victory earned them a showdown with Kathmandu Rayzrs FC for a place in the final taking place Thursday. The clash between the two attack oriented sides might not rise to the level of our expectations.

Do not be taken aback if it turns out to be a low-key affair played at a leisurely pace. Both outfits have been overwhelmed by the exhaustive schedule.

I cannot stop repeating myself for the upteenth time when it comes to criticizing the Nepal Super League fixtures.

Now the format of the competition comes into question, as well. It cannot get worse than this. Lalitpur City FC find themselves having to play two matches in two days sans rest unnder very challenging circumstances.It defies logic.How can it be justified?

Teams have been hit by a spate of injuries, and players have struggled mightily for fitness.They are exhausted and drained mentally and physically, and its impact has been noticable on their performance.

This is not the way to organize a tournament of Nepal Super League stature .In my opinon,the tournament scheduling, fixtures and format is a total disaster. This is the most blatant disregard for players safety and well-being on part of All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). How disgusting!

Three straight wins registered by Lalitpur City FC. Unbelievable! Not only have they fashioned an incredible unexpected turnaround but handled the playoffs pressure exceedingly well.

They have successfully played the last three matches with the same game plan,rhythm,gusto, drive, aggression, pace and consistency.

Whether they can maintain the high level of intensity, zeal, commitment and pace against Kathmandu Rayzrs,it remains to be seen. Taking into account their inspiring,explosive performance and high press game,they can be
considered a strong title contender.

No question,they are on a roll and eying a straight fourth win.Definitely they will need an encore performance to get it done.

My only concern is match fitness of players. It is obvious that they have been buried under the match load.

Given the importance of the game,the coach is bound to field the best playing eleven at his disposal regardless .No doubt, players will be carrying fatigue,heavy and tired legs into the match.

All they can do is hope for the best. If they are able to endure and overcome adversity,they have to play with the same winning combination and consistency ,coupled with a positive and aggressive mindset.

Also they have a score to settle for the loss they suffered at the hands of Kathmandu Rayzrs. The defense will need solid and confident defending against a very attack minded opponent.They must not leave gaping holes for them to exploit.

The midfielders have to step up to bolster offense and defense.Once again, striker Anjan Bista who is having a dream run in the competition will be key to Lalitpur City FC’s success.

Coming off a defeat ,Kathmandu Rayzrs FC gets another chance to advance to the final and challenge Dhangadi FC for the top honor.

Although they defeated Lalitpur City FC in the inaugural match of the competition,they now face a rejuvenated , transformed and tricky opponent who pose a bigger threat.

With a day’s rest after their last match, they should be in a better shape physically and must use it to their advantage.
The team has heavily relied on its offensive strength for success. Against Dhangadi FC,they were unimpressive and lacked coordination, execution,sting and good finish. They need to regroup. reinvent themselves and play with more swagger, intensity and confidence.

The key is, goal scoring chances must not go to waste. The midfield spearheaed by Bishal Rai have to play a more central and productive role when it comes to marshaling moves and controlling proceedings.

Unquestionably, the defense has shown vulnerability under pressure and lacked composure and tactical prowess.Their performance will be vital and crucial to team’s success.

At the end of the day day, the team that is physically fitter and mentally stronger wins the battle.

By Sushil Thapa,Fairfax,VA, USA