Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Goa’s campaign in 4th Khelo India Youth Games football came to an unexpected end after they lost to the underdogs Kerala 1-0 in a do or die match at the Punjab University Football Ground on Thursday. Kerala took the lead in the 8th minute of the first half through striker Aman CK, which remained till the final whistle.
Goan boys did try to come back in the game, with different variations but failed.
Goalkeeper Eknath Rathod was substituted in the 46th minute and substitute goalkeeper Mahadev was brought in, who made some excellent saves for Goa. Defender Maristo of Panjim footballers was also withdrawn and Aniket of Churchill Bros was injected to bring some impetus, later Valpoi lad goal scorer against Punjab was also pulled out in 80th minute and Chirag replaced him. But the rock solid Kerala defence did not allow much room to all the Goan variations, combinations and substitutions, thus punching out Goa from the competition.
In swimming competition, much anticipated medal from star swimmers Sanjana Prabhugaonkar took a hit as Ridhima Veeredrakumar of Karnataka claimed the gold in the heavyweights of 100 meters backstroke event. Nina Venkatesh of Karnataka won the silver while Palak Joshi of Maharashtra took the bronze. Sanjana came 4th. Tomorrow Sanjana will compete in the 50 mtrs back stroke.
Goa’s medal hopeful pugilist Suman Yadav brought some cheer to Goan contingent when she won her first round bout beating the Sikkim Pugilist 5-0, her second round bout is scheduled for June 11.
Goa girls team secured 6 place in the Mallakhamb competition with 28 States participating. One Goan mallakhamb athlete was selected to perform special demo with Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in audience amongst other dignitaries.
Meanwhile Goa’s Yogasan gold medal winners were accorded a rousing welcome at the Margao railway station by SAG/DSYA officials and the people present.
