RAIA: In an exhilarating showdown, Fatorda-Murida Veterans defeated valiant Ilhas Veterans 4-1 in the final to emerge champions of the Sesa Vedanta AWES Veterans tournament played at Sinquetim ground, recently.
The match kicked off with both teams demonstrating an insatiable appetite to break the deadlock. They crafted numerous promising opportunities. Notably, Pascual Pereira of Ilhas Veterans unleashed a long shot, but it sailed wide.
However, the turning point came when Domnic Fernandes of Ilhas Veterans committed a foul, granting Fatorda-Murida Veterans an invaluable opportunity to seize the lead. Francisco, representing Fatorda-Murida Veterans, stepped up for a penalty kick. Despite the keeper’s heroic dive, he denied Ilhas Veterans the chance to take the lead.
The first half concluded with a tense 0-0 scoreboard for both Ilhas Veterans and Murida-Fatorda Veterans.
The second half commenced with Fatorda-Murida Veterans wasting no time in seizing control. Seby Vaz, with a display of exceptional skill, broke the deadlock. He masterfully dribbled past Ilhas Veterans goalkeeper and defenders to slot the ball into the net.
Moments later, Menin of Fatorda-Murida Veterans had an opportunity to double the lead, but his shot veered off target. Seby, relentless in his pursuit of another goal, narrowly missed a spectacular shot by a mere inch.
Pascual Pereira of Ilhas Veterans attempted to rekindle hope with a determined effort, and Francisco Furtado of Ilhas Veterans aimed a head shot, but both attempts proved futile.
The lead for Fatorda-Murida Veterans was indeed doubled when Francisco Colaco found the back of the net. Ilhas Veterans, however, managed to open their scoring through Pratap Sawant.
Seby, with a stroke of misfortune, saw one of his shots strike the woodwork, but fortune favoured Fatorda-Murida Veterans as Menin was perfectly positioned to score their third goal.
Francisco later sealed the victory for Fatorda-Murida Veterans with a stunning long shot, securing his second goal of the match and bringing the final score to 4-1 in favour of Fatorda-Murida Veterans.
In the end, it was Francisco from Fatorda-Murida Veterans who shone brightest, earning the well-deserved title of Player of the Final and championship for the team. Leena Verenkar of Sesa Vedanta was the chief guest, while Brahmanand Shankhwalkar and Avertano Furtado and Micky Rebelo were the special invitees.
