Karnataka lift veterans trophy
HERALD CORRESPONDENT
MARGAO, APRIL 10
Karnataka Sports Association XI, Mumbai blanked Kolhapur Veterans 3-0 to emerge champions in All-India invitational veterans football tournament finals organised by Veterans of Salcete at Curtorim ground, on Saturday. The winners led 2-0 at the breather.
Karnataka took the lead in the 10th minute when Suresh Mendon headed home off a flag kick taken by Douglas de Sena.
Spurred by the early success, Karnataka’s Vijay Thapa doubled the lead in the 25th minute. Changing over, Karnataka’s Hashmuk Baria rounded off the tally when he unleashed a right footer which crashed into the net.
Karnataka were richer by Rs 50,000 while Kolhapur had to be content with Rs 30,000.
Following prizes were awarded: First scorer of the final – Suresh Mendon, Karnataka.
Best defender of the final – Vijay Thapa, Karnataka. Best forward – Hasmuk Baria, Karnataka. Best goalkeeper – Nagesh Upadaya, Karnataka. Best midfielder – Amar Upadaya, Kolhapur.
PWD Minister Churchill Alemao was the chief guest and gave away the prizes in the presence of Curtorim Zilla member Veena Lourenco, Curtorim sarpanch Aleixinho D’Silva and Raj Gomes, secretary, Salgaocar Sports Club. Reginaldo Lourenco, MLA, presided. Vijay Sardessai, general secretary, GPCC was the guest of honour. Alfred Fernandes welcomed. Mathew D’Costa proposed the vote of thanks while John Rodrigues compered.
