26 Mar 2023  |   05:22am IST

Karen stars in Goa’s 3-0 win over Rajasthan; Malati hat-tricks as Odisha hammers Andhra

Karen stars in Goa’s 3-0 win over Rajasthan; Malati hat-tricks as Odisha hammers Andhra

RAIA: A splendid brace by Karen Estrocio enabled Goa to beat Rajasthan 3-0 in the 27th Senior Women's National Football Group III Championship which got off to a start at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, today.

Goa began in right earnest, and Sushmita Jadhav, Valanie Fernandes missed chances to score in the first quarter. Subsequently, Namita Govekar's shot was brilliantly saved by Rajasthan goalkeeper Deepoka.

It was Goa's ace striker Karen Estrocio who rose to open the account as she took a glancing header off a cross from Namita Govekar in the 30th minute. Later, in the second half Karen made it 2-0 in the 50th minute with a power-packed shot.

Midfielder Valanie sent in a long ranger to make it 3-0 in the 64th minute. Subsequently, Priyanka Yadav of Rajasthan blocked Rizella Cia's header followed by defender Jyoti blocking Velanie's and Sushmita's tries.

Earlier, in the morning, Odisha defeated Andhra Pradesh 8-0. Andhra goalkeeper Kalu Vapalli Vennela put up a brave front in the first 10 minutes. It was Sunita Hembran who opened the scoreline for Odisha in the 17th minute. Subsequently, Deepa Nayak netted twice in the 18th and 38th minutes.

Grace Haunar made it 4-0 in the 43rd minute.

 Malati Munda netted a hat-trick for Odisha in the 45th, 45 plus 2 minutes and 50th minutes to lead 7-0. Jasoda Munda netted the 8th goal in the 73rd minute.

Earlier, AIFF secretary, Shaji Prabhakaran inaugurated the event in the presence of GFA president Caitano Fernandes, senior vice-president Anthony Pango, deputy chairperson of Women's Committee Royola Fernandes.

There will be no matches tomorrow.


IDhar UDHAR

Idhar Udhar