RAIA: Navelim Villagers Union emerged as the champions of 25th All-Goa Our Lady of Merces 8-a-side inter-village football tournament organised by Sirlim Sports Club at Chinchinim church ground, recently.
They secured victory by scoring a solitary goal win over Ambelim Sports Club.
The final was kicked off with both teams showcasing skillfull football. In the 5th minute, Navelim Villagers Union’s Clinton Niasso saw his header brilliantly saved by Ambelim SC’s goalkeeper Ozen Silva.
The game was largely contested in the midfield, with Navelim Villagers Union’s striker consistently challenging Ozen with long-range shots.
The first half ended in a goalless draw. In the second half, Rovan Pereira of Navelim Villagers Union missed an open opportunity in the 35th minute. However, Clinton broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute, putting Navelim Villagers Union ahead.
Clinton later received a yellow card in the 47th minute, and shortly after, he was shown a second yellow card followed by red card for a dangerous tackle, reducing Navelim Villagers Union to 10 men. Despite being a man down, Navelim Villagers Union’s defence held firm and Ambelim SC couldn’t capitalise on their numerical advantage.
ABCD of Vasco Sports Club Bernard Pereira was the chief guest and gave away the prizes to the winners (Rs 60,000 plus medals and trophy) and runners-up (Rs 50, 000 plus medals and trophy) in the presence of Goa Football Association President
Caetano Fernandes, Velim MLA Cruz Silva, Our Lady of Merces Chapel, Sirlim, Chaplin Chrysler D’Souza, other dignitaries and club officials.