PANJIM: Goa’s campaign came to an end as they went down 2-0 fighting to Punjab in the football semi-final of the 35th National Games, in Kerala, on Saturday.
After a brave display of ball possession and strong defending in the first session, Goa’s hearts came crashing down after changing ends.
It was in the 65th minute, when Ravinder Singh guided his free-kick past Goa custodian Albino Gomes.
Goa skipper Micky Fernandes worked hard in the midfield to feed strikers Marcus Mascarenhas and Nicolas Fernandes but the duo were left frustrated by the Punjab defence.
With two minutes to go for the final whistle, Punjab doubled their advantage with a clinical strike by Ajay Singh.
In the second semi-final, Mizoram edge past Maharashtra 2-1. The final between Punjab and Mizoram is on Monday, at 3.30 p.m.
The bronze medal match between Goa and Maharashtra will be played, at 7.30 a.m.
