TEAM HERALD
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MARGAO: Sao Jose de Areal Sports Club scored a narrow 2-1 win over Verna Sports Club to march into the semi-finals of All-Goa Vodafone inter-village football tournament organized by Colmorod Ratvado Sports Club at Rosary ground, Navelim, Tuesday. The teams were tied 1-1 at half time.
Areal broke the deadlock in the fifth minute when striker Franky Valadares headed home a cross from Agio Antao.
The early reversal served as a wake-up call to Verna who replied with quick counter-attacks and neutralized the lead in the 15th minute when Stanley Pereira punished the Areal goalkeeper Luis Dias with a clinical finish.
Stunned by the equalizer, Areal intensified their attacks and nearly regained the lead but Besrel Viegas’ rasping shot missed the mark narrowly. Later, Agio Antao’s pile driver sailed over.
At the other hand, Areal’s goalkeeper Luis Dias came to his side’s rescue blocking Basil Rego’s free kick.
Agio Antao put Areal ahead with a brilliant right footer in the 45th minute.
Basil Rego who played a stellar role for Verna was adjudged Most Valuable Player. Areal received Rs 4,000.
