Team Herald
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MAPUSA: FC Siolim huffed and puffed before they finally got the better of Saligao United SC by 4-1 margin via tie-breaker to clinch the 1st Siolim Villagers Cup organised by FC Siolim at the Siolim ground.
FC Siolim President Francis Fernandes who took up the reigns of the club was in ecstasy to find his boys lay the hands on the glittering trophy.
At the other end, Denzil Franco, president of Saligao United saw his team that made a maiden entry into the final play their hearts out in front of a large crowd. In the earlier part of the match, Saligao United SC’s Crespo D’Souza failed to connect a cross from Kendrick in front of the goal. On crossing ends, FC Siolim dominated but Saligao United’s custodian Augustin brought two outstanding saves from close range.
In the last minute of the match, Crespo had a good opportunity to net the winner. Kendrick sent a long ball once again to Crespo but the latter couldn’t get the better of FC Siolim keeper.
In the tie-breaker, Kendrick kick was saved, Charnel and Crespo shot wide only Latesh Mandrekar scored for Saligao. FC Siolim scored all four spot kicks, 4-1. Hosts FC Siolim retained the winners cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a trophy, while Saligao United SC had to be content with runners-up cash prize of Rs 70,000 and trophy.
Earlier, chief guest Churchill Alemao, former Goa Football Association President, guest of honour Delilah Lobo, Siolim MLA, special invitees Arjuna Awardees Brahmanand Sankhwalkar, Bruno Coutinho; former international football player Samir Naik, India U-19 coach Bibiano Fernandes, Sodiem Siolim Deputy Sarpanch Nilesh Vaigankar and other dignitaries were introduced to the players and match officials by Francis Fernandes and executive committee members.