RAIA: In an exciting final, Alila Diva T Association defeated Zuri White Sands T Association 2-1 to emerge champions in the inter-hotel football tournament – Fidelis Rodrigues Memorial Trophy – organised by St Regis Taxi Association, Mobor-Cavelossim, at Fr Druston and Wellington ground, Cavelossim, recently.
Alila Diwa played an attacking soccer with Andrew Tediso and Sheldon Fernandes combining well upfront and in the 15th minute a cross from midfield by the best defender of the final Roque Pereira was well controlled by Andrew Tediso, whose power-packed shot beat Zuri keeper Candido Furtado to draw first blood for Alila Diva.
Crossing over, Zuri White Sands mounted concerted attacks using the flanks and succeeded in drawing parity when Yunal Fernandes headed in a superb cross by Wilfred Fernandes past Alila keeper Joseph D’Cruz.
When the match looked to be heading for the extra time a flag kick was awarded to Alila . Frankie D’Silva took a curling shot which was headed in by Joseph D’Costa to seal the victory for Allila Diwa T Association, Majorda.
The winners pocketed Rs 15,000 and trophy while the runners-up were awarded Rs 10,000 and trophy.
Dixon Vaz, sarpanch of Village Panchayat Cavelossim was the chief guest and gave away the winners’ trophy in the presence panch Jesus D’Costa, guest of honour; special invitees President of SCC Cavelossim Viano Rodrigues, panchas John Barreto, Swizel Barreto, Villager’s Forum Secretary Prince Pereira, Sarita Rodrigues, daughter of late Fidelis Rodrigues and tiatrist Agustino Monteiro.
The tournament was well coordinated by James D’Costa, president of St Regis Taxi Association, Mobor-Cavelossim while Rui Jeorge, general secretary proposed a vote of thanks and Francis Rodrigues compered.
