PANJIM: Ponda Veterans defeated Panjim Veterans 5-4 via the tie-breaker in the final to emerge champions in all-Goa veterans soccer tournament organized by Ambelim Veterans Club, at SAG ground, Assolna, recently.
In the first half, Ponda’s Hiru, Francis and Ramesh were denied goals by Panjim defence, which stood like a rock.
In the second half, Panjim had a chance to score when Alex fed a through ball to Pascoal but was tackled by Ponda’s Vincent. Ponda’s attempt through Alfred was punched out for a corner.
In the tie-breaker, Vincent, Rafik, Alfred, Xavier and Ramesh scored for Ponda while Pascoal, Alex, Daniel and Baptist were on target for Panjim. Velim MLA Benjamin Silva, Fr Lucio and Sarpanch Sharmila were the guests.
Ponda were richer by Rs 20,000 while Panjim received Rs 15,000. Vincent Colaco of Ponda Football Veterans was adjudged best player of the final, Daniel Fernandes was the best defender.
