Thinley Namgay

For the first time, Bhutan Premier League (BPL) football clubs are organising dzongkhag league (D-League) instead of Bhutan Football Federation (BFF).

So far, BFF has been conducting D-League in collaboration with the dzongkhag sports associations of concern dzongkhag.

BFF decided to let clubs coordinate the D-League to make them technically and financially competent.

BFF’s competition officer, Kinley Dorji, said: “While organising the tournament, clubs will gain experience. Our clubs should be competent to coordinate AFC matches.”

He said the BFF is assisting the coordinating clubs with Nu 200,000 and necessary equipment. “Clubs might also get some support from the local sponsors to become financially stable.”

The D-league is underway in Thimphu and Paro; Thimphu City FC and Paro FC are initiating the tournament.

According to Kinley Dorji, BPL qualifier clubs were given preferences this season. “Discussion is ongoing as to whether non-BPL clubs should be provided a chance to coordinate such tournaments in the future.”

Kinley Dorji said that D-League is critical for the participating clubs as they have to acquire a BFF club licence for better opportunities. One of the club officials said the Nu 200,000 support from the BFF would help them carry out football development activities.

In the third game of the Thimphu D-League, AA You Kuengacholing FC defeated Iconic Boys FC 3-0 yesterday at the Changlimithang Stadium.

Paro D-League also has six teams; the tournament began on March 3. In the opening game, Drukyul FC thrashed Dzongkhag 5-1. Tenzenling United FC will face Pangbisa FC today.

The clubs paid an entry fee of Nu 25,000 each.

Ten teams will play in the Sarpang D-League that begins in Gelephu today. AMG FC will play Dovan FC in the opening game. Coordinator, Gel-Sar United FC, collected Nu 10,000 entry fee.

Punakha D-League, organised by Ugyen Academy, will begin this week with seven teams.