Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
RAIA: Navelim Sporting Club staged a dramatic second-half comeback to stun Betalbatim Sporting Club 4-1 to move into the next round of Anil Kamat memorial football tournament played at the Chinchinim Church ground, on Sunday.
Betalbatim SC started strong, with Dickson Rogtas opening the scoring in the very 4th minute. They nearly doubled the lead in the 7th minute with a free-kick taken by Allison Rogtas, though it failed to trouble the Navelim SC defence. Navelim SC responded with intent as Venito Costa came close in the 12th minute and Ronaldo Pereira forced two crucial saves from the Betalbatim SC goalkeeper in the 19th and 32nd minute.
After the break, Navelim SC returned with purpose. Joyson Coutinho brought the team on level terms with a precise 10-yard free-kick in the 37th minute. Building on the momentum, Navelim SC launched a relentless attack in the final stretch.
Venito Costa struck in the 42nd minute to put his side ahead, followed by Prestley Gomes in the 43rd and Velon Rebello in the 50th, sealing a remarkable turnaround.