Kathmandu: Every footballer dreams to play every single second of the game though very few get such opportunities. Such rare opportunities truly are combinations of their skills, dedication, passion, endurance and the trust of the coach.

The recently concluded third edition of Nepal Super League, a franchise football tournament, saw only eight out of 149 players play for the full time – ever present for their sides – never substituted, never benched and always vital.

Among the tough eight, five Nepali players marked a remarkable campaign overwhelmingly dictated by foreigners. None of the FC Chitwan and Dhangadhi FC players matched the feat.

The Tough Eight

Yogesh Gurung: The Nepali international midfielder was the only player from the champions Lalitpur FC to play at least for 720 minutes under the floodlights of the Dasharath Stadium.

Padam Bhattarai and William Baissi: Runners up Pokhara Thunders players combined perfectly and played instrumental roles in guiding Pokhara to victory. Padam and Cameroonian William played the  highest nine matches including the eliminator and second qualifier and featured for at least 810 minutes.

Following a sluggish start losing the first two games, the duo left their mark with a composed show in defense as Pokhara maintained unbeaten streak in the next six matches only losing to champions Lalitpur 2-1 in the final.

Deep Karki and Bimal Pandey:  Deep took the charge of the post for Butwal Lumbini FC and put up an impressive performance though his side made an early exit finishing at the bottom of the standings. displayed their prowess for 540 minutes.

Defender Bimal, who plays ‘A’ division league for Tribhuvan Army Club, also joined custodian Deep displayed their prowess for 540 minutes.

Laken Limbu: The Jhapa FC captain and Nepal international midfielder dazzled on the field with an outstanding display of skills playing at least 540 minutes. He scored a goal but his side bowed out from the league stage finishing sixth.

Alijon Alijonov and Bakary Mane: The defenders duo – Uzbek Alijon and Senegalese Bakary Mane were both crucial members of Kathmandu Rayzrs . They played at least 540 minutes in six league matches after Kathmandu failed to progress to playoffs on goal difference.