RAIA: Curtorim Gymkhana defeated Navelim SC, 7-6, in a thrilling tie-breaker to advance to the semi-finals of the 51st Custodio Memorial football tournament, organised by Raia Sporting Club and held at Raia panchayat ground, on Saturday.
Both teams showcased their best efforts in front of over 1500 spectators. Joywin Carneiro of Curtorim Gymkhana emerged as the star of the match with his quick moves and powerful shots, while Travis Souza stood out for Navelim SC with his impressive performance.
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Curtorim had early chances to score with Afliio Fernandes and Maldino Rodrigues missing opportunities in the 2nd and 5th minutes, respectively. Navelim’s Travis Souza also came close, but his long-range shot missed the target in the 9th minute.
Coach Arnald Costa of Curtorim then brought Joywin Carneiro into play, resulting in a successful placement shot that sailed into the Navelim net in the 10th minute. Navelim’s Ronaldo Pereira struck the post in the 17th minute, narrowly missing an equaliser.
A tricky move by Joywin Carneiro could have increased Curtorim’s lead if not for a minor slip. Navelim’s coach, Aluxio Fernandes, adjusted his game plan in the 20th minute, assigning Nash Pereira extra responsibilities in midfield and frontline shooting. This strategy paid off when Nash Pereira volleyed an equaliser for Navelim in the 24th minute.
After a powerful shot by Travis Souza was saved by Curtorim’s goalkeeper, Nash Pereira’s placement shot made it 2-1 for Navelim in the 43rd minute. However, Joywin Carneiro’s attempt was cleared by Navelim’s goalkeeper. A sudden turn and shot by Marcus Fernandes in the 46th minute brought the score to 2-2.
In the tie-breaker, Curtorim Gymkhana proved to be the better shooters, securing their place in the semi-finals.
Joywin Carneiro of Curtorim Gymkhana was awarded man-of-the-match from Dr Errol Rodrigues.
