PANJIM: A fine brace from striker Nikesh Mangueshkar helped Fr Agnel College, Pilar blank Post Graduates of Goa University 2-0 in the inaugural match of A.C. Fernandes Memorial Trophy, an all Goa inter-college football tournament organised by HeraldGroup in association with GOA, at Santa Cruz ground, on Friday.
At lemon break the score was 2-0 with striker Nikesh scoring both the goals.
As expected, Fr Agnel started their campaign on an attacking mode. They dominated the first 10 minutes of play and finally their efforts bore fruits in the 12th minute when a beautiful cross from the right was intercepted and converted by Vikesh with a fine volley, bringing joy to the Fr Agnel camp.
The goal did not let the Fr Agnel boys settle down, they continued exerting pressure on the University boys. In the 18th minute, pores defending by Post Graduates led to an open chance for man in form Nikesh, who made no mistake to convert a golden opportunity to make it 2-0.
It was a nightmare for Post Graduates defenders as miscommunication among them almost led to an own goal.
In the second half, Post Graduates of Goa University showed urgency and almost found a breakthrough from the left flank. Captain Aneesudhin played the ball to Henry Fernandes but the latter’s rasping shot missed the mark by a whisker.
Later, Fr Agnel took control with Joe Pires and Jeremy Menezes working hard in the midfield but they just couldn’t find the net.
In the last quarter, Joe almost scored but his rasping shot was paired away by Post Graduates goalkeeper Kenneth Lobo. Joe Pereira and Ashwin Coutinho of Fr Agnel were cautioned by the referee. Nikesh was awarded man-of-the-match.
Earlier, Chief guest Parish Priest of Santa Cruz Church Fr Alexandre Pereira kicked off the tournament in the presence of guest of honour Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs Director Y.B. Tavde, President of Crown Club, Santa Cruz Victor Fernandes; Managing Director of Goa Tourism Development Council Nikhil Dessai and Managing Director of Quadros Motors Evencio Quadros.
In the girls exhibition match, Subroto Cup champions Carmel Higher Secondary School, Nuvem got the better of Tiswadi taluka champions Our Lady of Rosary High School (Green Rosary), Dona Paula 4-1 via tie-breaker after the match ended in a goalless draw.
Fr Alexandre Pereira and Victor Gonsalves gave away the prizes to winners and runners-up of the exhibition match.
Geneive Fernandes of Carmel HSS was adjudged the women-of-the-match.
