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MAPUSA/RAIA: Candolim SC’s goalkeeper Jason D’Mello produced a series of outstanding saves to help his ten-man side hold Chapora YS to a goalless draw in the GFA’s First Division playoff at the Duler stadium, on Wednesday.
Chapora YS, fresh off a thumping 7-0 victory over SCC Cavelossim, were expected to secure an easy win. That outcome appeared even more likely when Candolim were reduced to ten men as early as the 9th minute. Pralhad Velip was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Chapora striker Sankalp Kankonkar, who was charging towards goal.
Despite their numerical advantage, Chapora could not find a way past Candolim’s in-form custodian. Jason D’Mello pulled off two excellent saves in the first half, pushing away powerful strikes from Rayman Fernandes and Nakul Gawas for corners.
Candolim had a rare opportunity of their own during the first session, but Chapora’s defender Gaurav Vaingankar intervened just in time to block Murphy Fernandes’s dangerous cross in front of goal.
The first half ended on a sour note for Candolim when their manager, Joe Misquita, received a straight red card during stoppage time for using abusive language directed at the referee.
Chapora’s frustration continued after the break. Jason D’Mello remained unbeatable, pulling off two breathtaking saves in one-on-one situations to deny Stephen Martin.
Candolim, showing renewed energy in the final quarter of the match, created three decent scoring chances. However, Chapora’s defence stood firm, with Ozen Silva and his backline stepping up to preserve the clean sheet.
At the Nagoa Panchayat ground, Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim held St Anthony’s SC of Marna Siolim to a 2-2 draw.
St Anthony’s SC Marna Siolim took control early in the first half, with Siddhant Shirodkar and Nathan D’Souza getting on the scoresheet to give their side a two-goal advantage.
However, the second session saw a spirited fightback from Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim. Sam Moura and Delzan Passanha both found the back of the net to restore parity and earn their team a valuable point in the league encounter.
