MARGAO: Curtorim Gymkhana stuck to their strengths and tactical approach to break down the rival defence as they prevailed over Navelim Villagers Union 4-3 via the tie-breaker to clinch the 12th all-Goa Fr Gervasio Pinto memorial inter-village football tournament, organized by Guardian Angel Sports Club, Curchorem, at Figureido ground, Pontemol-Curchorem, on Sunday, The teams were tied 1-1 at full time.
Curtorim Gymkhana started strongly with striker Milagres Fernandes, who opened the scoring in the 20th minute after skillfully dribbling couple of defenders and shot past the rival goalkeeper, 1-0.
Stung by the setback, Navelim Villagers Union regrouped quickly and neutralized the lead in the 25th minute when striker Rovel Gomes took the advantage of rival goalkeeper Johnson Bhagat advancing and unleashed a snap shot that landed into the net.
Post resumption, the teams raised visions and breaking down the defence and had chances to wrapped up the match itself in the second half.
The teams saw on an even keel with both having their moments in the sun. First striker Milagres Fernandes unleashed a snap shot which missed the mark narrowly and at other end, Wilton Gomes’ pile driver missed.
Savio Fernandes was rock solid at back for Curtorim Gymkhana and thwarted rival attacks with neat tackles.
In the ensuing penalty shoot-out, Nelson Fernandes, Savio Fernandes and Steve Fernandes were on target for Curtorim Gymkhana while Wilton Gomes and Rovel Gomes converted for Navelim Villagers Union.
Curtorim Gymkhana were richer by Rs 40,000 and a glittering trophy while Navelim Villagers had to settle for Rs 30,000 and a trophy.
The following individual prizes were awarded to Best disciplined team Betalbatim Sporting Club, First scorer of the final Milagres Fernandes of Curtorim Gymkhana, Best forward of the final Sandy Colaco of Navelim Villagers Union, Man of the tournament Johnson Bhagat of Curtorim Gymkhana, Best midfielder Rovel Gomes of Navelim Villagers Union and Best goalkeeper of the final Cletus Pereira of Navelim Villagers Union.
Curchorem MLA and chairman of GTDC, Nilesh Cabral was the chief guest and gave away the prizes in the presence of guests of honour Fr Walter Miranda, Headmaster of Guardian Angel HS, Circhorem; Fr Sanatana D’Souza, Parochial Administrator; Fr Jorge Fernandes, assistant parish priest of Guardian Angel church, Churchorem and special invitees Xavier Vaz, proprietor of LEDA, Colva; Dr Jasmine Braganza, ex-chairperson CMC and Earl Braganza.
Earlier, Johncy Fernandes, president of Guardian Angel Sports Club welcomed. Alvito D’Cunha, former international footballer proposed the vote of thanks. In all, 16 teams participated.
