Team Herald
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RAIA: Manddar Khuris Pedda battled hard to beat United Club Juniors, 2-0, and book their place in the final of the St John Baptist Trophy, organised by Football Friends Benaulim, at St John Baptist ground, Dando-Benaulim.
Pedda dominated the first half, but United goalkeeper Rossly Fernandes produced three superb saves to keep his side in contention. After the restart, United almost stole the lead when Yohan Rodrigues’ long-range strike was tipped away by rival custodian Joseph Pinto.
Just as the tie seemed destined for penalties, mercurial striker Meku Cardozo latched onto an Arif Pathan pass to break the deadlock. Pathan then sealed victory with a close-range strike to put the contest beyond reach.
Meku Cardozo was named man-of-the-match, the award presented by former Dempo player Minguel Rodrigues and ex-Benaulim goalkeeper Conny Rodrigues.