Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
MAPUSA: Clube de Salgaocar marked their Goa Professional League campaign with a confident 2-0 win over debutants Bidesh XI SC, at Duler stadium, on Wednesday.
Salgaocar struck in each half through Selwyn Miranda (18’) and substitute Joshua D’Silva (90’). Coach Keenan Almeida made three changes from the side that faced Churchill Brothers, while Bidesh XI, playing their maiden GPL fixture, began brightly.
Omkar Shetgaonkar twice went close inside the opening minutes, forcing keeper Sanij Bugde into action. But once Salgaocar settled, they dictated play, with Royson Colaco missing a sitter before Miranda drilled home a low strike.
Bidesh keeper Roanal Gaunkar denied Miranda a second, while Isaac Zomuanpuia rattled the crossbar. After the restart, Kritikesh Gadekar and substitute Mohammed Sahil squandered clear chances to equalise.
Deep into stoppage time, Zomuanpuia’s long ball was misjudged by defender Myran Pereira, allowing Joshua D’Silva to pounce and slot home for 2-0.
Selwyn Miranda was named man-of-the-match, receiving his award from GFA Executive Committee member Andrew Ferrao.