Kathmandu, 9 January: Linesman Laxman Shrestha and several policemen were severely injured when Royal Nepal Army personnel spectators turned violent during the quarter finals between the Tribhuvan Club and Manang Marsyangdi Club at the Birthday Cup football tournament that took place in Dasrath Rangashala Monday. Defending champion Manang Marsyangdi Club (MMC) trounced Tribhuvan Club of the army 3-0 in the quarterfinal.

A large crowd of RNA soldiers both in and out of uniform hurled stones and mineral water bottles at the linesman after a controversial call by him was taken in favour of the MMC. The soldiers who had to come to watch their club couldn’t handle it after a third goal was scored in favour of the MMC and started getting violent. The agitated soldiers snatched batons from nearby policemen placed on duty to control the crowd and severely beat them after a penalty kick was converted into a goal six minutes before the end of play. Police charged at the soldiers in the stands with sticks and nabbed an army man who was again freed by other army personnel eyewitnesses said. Senior military personnel and sports officials intervened to bring the riot under control.

The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) formed an inquiry committee after meeting in an emergency session and has decided to act upon its recommendations.