MAPUSA: Xetrapal SC secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Saligao Sporting Club in the first quarter-final of the Assonora United Super Soccer Cup, organised by Assonora United FC and played at the Sinquerim ground, on Wednesday.
Both teams showcased an exciting brand of football in a closely contested encounter.
Xetrapal made an early breakthrough in just the 3rd minute of the match, when their mercurial striker Ashok found the back of the net after receiving a precise through ball from Chandrakant, making it 1-0.
However, Xetrapal's lead was short-lived, as Saligao responded swiftly and levelled the score just two minutes later, making it 1-1.
The second half saw both sides engage in a balanced battle, sharing equal exchanges in midfield and attack. In the 17th minute of the second half, Xetrapal’s Chandrakant made a threatening run towards the Saligao goal and was brought down in the penalty area by Nikhil. The referee awarded a penalty, and Mayuresh Naik stepped up to calmly convert from the spot, restoring Xetrapal's lead at 2-1.
Mayuresh Naik’s composed finish and all-round performance earned him the man-of-the-match award.