Team Herald
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RAIA: Sao Jose de Areal delivered a clinical and composed performance to down Sai Avatar SC, Anjuna, 2-0 in the semi-finals of 46th Cana Benaulim Soccer Championship played at the Benaulim ground, on Tuesday.
Sai Avatar SC started with high intensity, but Sao Jose de Areal goalkeeper Aggie Antao sent an early message with a flying save in the very first minute. Just two minutes later, Sai Avatar SC were stunned when Alvito Moura capitalised on a crowded goalmouth scramble to fire Sao Jose de Areal ahead.
The contest remained fiercely balanced, with both sides matching each other in the midfield and duels. Ashley Gomes was unstoppable on the left flank and Sao Jose de Areal preserved their 1-0 cushion till the break. After halftime, Sai Avatar SC surged forward with Pavan and Rohan supporting the front-men Mohammed and Marvoti. But in their aggressive push, they left gaps at the back and Sao Jose de Areal punished them. In the 33rd minute, Ashley whipped in a perfect cross that Stallone converted brilliantly. Sai Avatar SC kept pushing, but Sao Jose de Areal’s defensive wall - led by Bersal, Aryan and Aggie - stood unbreakable.