RAIA: Ambelim SC defeated Navelim Sporting, 2-1, to lift the 2nd Fr Bruno Leitao Memorial Cup, in the all-Goa 8-a-side inter-village football tournament, organised by the Union of Chinchinim Villagers, at Our Lady of Hope Church ground, in Chinchinim, on Sunday. The match was witnessed by over 3000 spectators.
Ambelim’s goalkeeper, Benny Silva, was the standout player, making numerous crucial saves. Navelim’s Velington Almeida also gave a commendable performance. Navelim nearly scored in the 3rd minute but Silva saved Ronaldo Gomes’ attempt. In the 8th minute, keeper Silva’s direct kick found the net, making it 1-0 for Ambelim. Despite increased pressure from Navelim, Silva made a goal-line save from Prestly Gomes in the 14th minute. Asfin Pinto of Ambelim narrowly missed a chance in the 21st minute, ending the first half with Ambelim leading 1-0.
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In the second half, Navelim’s Velington Almeida equalised in the 46th minute. However, in the 51st minute, Ambelim’s Asfin Pinto and Samson Fernandes combined effectively, with Fernandes scoring the winning goal. Silva made another critical save in the final moments, securing a 2-1 victory for Ambelim SC.
Fr Victor Viegas and Fr Christopher Fernandes were the guests of honour, presenting the prizes to the winners and runners-up. The event was attended by Cruz Silva, MLA of Velim constituency, Alton D’Costa, MLA of Quepem constituency, Valentino Barretto, sarpanch of VP Chinchinim, Julio Fernandes, ZP member of Velim constituency, other panch members of VP Chinchinim, and various dignitaries and club officials.
