SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024
Team Herald
VASCO/RAIA: Sporting Clube de Goa played their hearts out but suffered a solitary-goal defeat against Dempo SC in the Goa Professional League at Tilak Maidan, here, on Wednesday.
Sporting’s defence was put to the test in the first session as Dempo’s young side created all problems with their pace.
Faseen PK scored the winner in the 47th minute for Dempo but despite Sporting’s dominance, a goal eluded them.
Dempo moved on top of the standings with 37 points from 19 games. Sporting are fourth with 34 points.
In the initial moments, Sporting custodian Bhaskar Jalmi gave the ball away after a clearance. However, Bhaskar made amends as he thwarted an attempt by Dempo forward Arnold Oliveira.
Dempo came close again in the 18th minute when Aaron Bareto got the better of Bhaskar but luckily, his shot hit the side-netting.
Sporting took time to get into their rhythm but when they did, Dempo were on the back foot.
Doyal Alves came close, but his shot lacked power while Lloyd Mascarenhas’ attempt before the break lacked direction.
Dempo broke the deadlock two minutes into the second half when defender Faseen’s grounder evaded a diving Bhaskar.
Sporting had to regroup and had a chance just before the hour mark, but Vidipt Dua's close header was cleared for a corner. Then a loud shout for a Dempo handball went unanswered.
Sporting went all out in the final quarter but couldn’t find the equaliser.
In another match, Churchill Brothers FC defeated Panjim Footballers, 2-0, to register win at SAG ground, Benaulim. Churchill Bros scored in the 14th minute. Later Shario Gomes double the lead in the 40th minute.
