Team Herald
AMBELIM: Salgaocar FC Juniors emerged champions of the GFA First Division League after defeating Panjim Footballers 2-0 at Ambelim ground, on Wednesday.
Lalit Tariya and Liston Colaco scored for the winners.
In their previous meeting Salgaocar juniors hammered Panjim 5-0 which was played in Don Bosco, Panjim.
Salgaocar FC lads attacked from the first whistle as Liston saw his long range shot sail over the bar.
With the arrival of monsoons showers in the State; both teams had a tough time adjusting on the water logged pitch. Teams showed initial struggle handling and passing the ball.
Salgaocar had the first chance to score in the 27th minute but Lalit’s poor attempt failed to enter the Panjim Footballers nets.
Salgaocar scored the first goal in the 30th minute through Lalit who guided in Stephen Alvares’ assist.
Panjim Footballers had a short spell where they tested the Salgaocar defence and Harshad Naik was unlucky when his shot from close range was saved by the Greens keeper before his second attempt was cleared away by defender Sourabh Patil in the 36th minute through the half.
The half didn’t have many chances and Salgaocar had their noses in front with a 1-0 lead.
In the second half, as has been the trend throughout their campaign, Salgaocar took control of the game and started wearing down their opponents.
They kept creating plenty of chances throughout the half and were finally rewarded for their toils in the 73rd minute when Liston tapped the ball from four yards out after a delicious low cross from substitute Jason Barbosa.
“It’s a great achievement for us. The boys barely age of 17 and 18 put up a splendid display throughout the League. It’s the lads’ hardwork and dedication that won us the league,” said jubilated Adlear D’Cruz Salgaocar FC genereal secretary.
Despite Salgaocar FC topping the table and winning the league, they will not promote to the GFA Professional League.
“We won’t be playing in the Pro-League as we have our senior team playing there. We believe in giving good exposure to the kids and these boys will feature in the next Pro-League season,” said Adlear.
With Salgaocar FC not eyeing for Goa Pro-League, the second placed team will qualify for the top-tier league for the upcoming season.
Adlear who celebrated his birthday on Wednesday said that it was a perfect gift from the youngsters on his special day.
“There couldn’t be better gift than this. The boys just made my day,” he exclaimed.
At Cuncolim ground, Immaculate Conception SC Paroda defeated Curtorim Gymkhana 1-0.
Hygenes Fernandes scored the match-winner for ICSC Paroda in the 36th minute.
