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RAIA: Navelim Villagers Union showcased exceptional teamwork to defeat a spirited and in-form Parish Youth Nuvem, 2-0, securing a spot in the quarterfinals of the Cavelossim Panchayat Cup football tournament, organised by Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim, at the Fr Druston and Wellington ground, Cavelossim.
Navelim adopted a controlled, passing style of play that caught their opponents off guard. In just the 5th minute, Brandon Gomes initiated a clever exchange of short passes with Aliston Gomes, who backheeled the ball to Presley Gomes. Presley’s first-time shot left Nuvem goalkeeper Mackwino Colaco with no chance, giving Navelim an early 1-0 lead.
After the break, Parish Youth Nuvem made determined attempts to level the score, primarily through attacks from the left flank. However, efforts by Maclin and Francis were thwarted by Navelim’s goalkeeper, Selvin Gomes, who had an outstanding match.
Navelim sealed their victory with a spectacular goal from Ronaldo Pereira. Starting from midfield, Pereira squared the ball to Brandon Gomes, whose through pass was perfectly timed. Ronaldo latched onto the pass and calmly slotted it past the keeper, making it 2-0.
Parish Youth Nuvem had a golden opportunity to narrow the deficit when Ivo Colaco unleashed a close-range shot, but Selvin Gomes under the Navelim bar pulled off a brilliant punch to deny the effort, ensuring the scoreboard remained unchanged.
Presley Gomes of Navelim Villagers Union was awarded the man-of-the-match trophy by the chief guest, John Colaco, secretary of VP Cavelossim.
