TEAM HERALD
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Curtorim Gymkhana sailed past Rossman Cruz, Nagoa 2-0 to romp into the final of 1st Balaji Ambe memorial inter-village football tournament organized by Cuncolim Union, at Cuncolim ground, at Cuncolim.
Curtorim surged ahead in the 13th minute through a goal from Joaquim Carvalho off a pass from Vicky Fernandes. In the very 22nd minute, Curtorim doubled their lead when Bruno Fernandes’ header bulged the nylons off a cross from Joaquim Carvalho.
After resumption, Rossman could have reduced the deficit in the 32nd minute but Eusebio Fernandes’ powerful shot were saved by Curtorim goalkeeper Custodio Peixoto.
Thereafter, Rossman’s Menino Pereira and Viajal Rego tried to reduce the margin but Curtorim defender Nelson Fernandes and Joao Fernandes stood tall in protecting their citadel.
On Saturday, hosts Cuncolim Union edged past United Club of Benaulim 2-1 to advance into the semi-finals at Cuncolim ground, Cuncolim. There was no score at half time.
The teams started on an attacking note with Trevor Dias and Daulat Dessai for Cuncolim and Rudy Fernandes and Paulin D’Silva for Benaulim trying valiantly to put their team ahead but to no avail.
In the second half, Cuncolim changed their strategy and organized well orchestrated raids. Cuncolim almost took the lead in the 30th minute but Drupesh’s powerful shot from 15 yards hit the crossbar and went out. Cuncolim forged ahead in the 34th minute when Daulat netted off a pass from Trevor Dias. However, their joy was shortlived as in the 41st minute Benaulim scored the equalizer through Stefan Baptista’s which beat the Cuncolim goalkeeper hands down.
Stunned by the equalizer, Cuncolim got their act together and took the lead in the 55th minute when Trevor dodged past Benaulim defender Laxmikant Kurade and slotted past the rival goalkeeper.
In the dying minute, Benaulim’s Stevan Baptista was flashed the red card by referee Rosario Fernandes for using abusive language. Cuncolim will meet Navelim Villagers Union in the semi-finals on January 6.
