Kathmandu Rayzrs FC and Pokhara Thunders FC are all set to duke it out to bolster their position in the National Super League Friday at Dashrath stadium,

Although the sides are level on points, however, Pokhara Thunders are ahead of Kathmandu Rayzrs in the standings on goal difference.

As far as the results and performances go, the first franchised based tournament has been full of surprises and uncertainties.At this point,no clear favorites have emerged and the race to the finish is wide open.

Both teams are expected to throw the kitchen sink at one another to earn full points as the competition begins to heat up.

With Kathmandu Rayzrs struggling, Head Coach Bal Kumar Maharjan finds himself in a challenging abd tricky spot ahead of the crucial fixture. There is no hiding the fact that one of the strong contenders Kathmandu Rayzrs’ performance has left wanting. They did start the tournament on a winning note but completely lost their way in the second match against Dhangadi FC.

Speaking of their performance, it was inconsistent, ragged , lacklustre and uninspiring all the way to the end. The struggle was prominent in both midfield and offense. In addition, ball possession percentage was below average,losing out the ball easily to the opponent. The attack lacked penetration and direction and midfield play was virtually ineffective. Playmaker Sanjog Rai was far from his best.

As a result , the defense was stretched as they came under constant pressure and ultimately caved in.They were guilty of defensive lapses and inability to handle pressure. At the end of the day, Kathmandu Rayzrs got punished for their complacency and listless performance. Coach Maharjan knows that his team cannot afford to play subpar football against Pokhara Thunders to get back into the tournament.

He needs to restrategize his approach and game plan going into the vital match, and at the same time use his years of experiences to find a way to put his team back on the right track. He has to lift the morale of the team and inspire them to perform to their potential. Players must put their heart and soul into the game and take their performance to a whole new level. Likewise,they have to put the pieces together, reinvent themselves and go all out for the win. It is
important to grow from mistakes and bounce back from failure as a team. I don't see why they cannot do it.

On the other side of the coin, Pokhara Thunders fresh off their narrow win over Biratnagar City FC have the momentum.

Without a doubt,they are looking forward to keeping the momentum going in their efforts to secure another victory . Furthermore, they want to prove and project themselves as serious contenders. They made a quick turnaround,following defeat in the opening match against Butwal Lumbini. Head

Coach Nabin Nupane’ s change of strategies, tactics and pre game talk helped the team rebound. Their confidence level will be high as they take the field against Kathmandu Rayzrs. Confidence alone is not enough to win games. Every match is different and they will require a solid consistent performance for an outright victory

Good news for the team is that prolific goal scorer Nawayug Shrestha is back scoring. As always,he will be a key player for the team and the burden of scoring rests on him. They will want to be at their very best again.

They have to play consistently, avoid unforced errors, maintain composure and display appety for success.

The team that strikes a better rhythm, coordination and capitalizes on scoring chances wins.


By Sushil Thapa