Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
ELLA: Dempo SC unbeaten U-19 side produced a scintillating performance to outclass Penha de France, 10-0, and secure the GFA’s U-19 championship title, at Ella ground on Tuesday.
Dalvin Coelho stole the show with a well-taken hat-trick, while Topan Miniz (2), Shailesh Shirvoikar (2), Murphy Fernandes (2) and Vedant Gadekar also added their names to the scoresheet in a thoroughly dominant display.
The emphatic victory underscored not only the team’s attacking firepower but also their cohesion and disciplined preparation throughout the campaign. GFA President Caitan Fernandes and several members of the executive committee were present to witness the commanding win.
Speaking after the match, Dempo SC Head Coach Pradip Chopdekar remarked, “This victory is a testament to our players' and technical staff’s hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in each other. I am super proud of every player and every staff member for this collective effort.”
He further added, “We believe in process, preparation, and perseverance. Throughout the season, we focused on the process—attacking, defending, and transitions in all three thirds of the pitch. The moment we start talking about results, it places pressure on the players to perform.”
Chopdekar also expressed his gratitude to Club President Shrinivas Dempo for his continued support through both highs and lows. He paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Katz Naidoo, former Technical Director and the late John Dias, former U-19 manager, for their invaluable contributions to the club.