RAIA: Pidadigal Sports Club defeated Rumba United Club, 3-0, to advance to the quarterfinals of the 1st Caniza Peixoto Memorial 9-a-side football tournament, organised by Agxem Sports Club, played at St Alex Church ground, in Curtorim on Monday.
The match began at a slow pace due to a slippery pitch from overnight rain, with both teams vying for control. Pidadigal struck first in the 15th minute when Ruwan Fernandes scored, and he doubled the lead in the 20th minute. Rumba United’s Olive Colaco missed a header before halftime, leaving Pidadigal ahead 2-0 at the break.
In the second half, Rumba United applied pressure through Alcino Paes, Rama Zalmi, and Movin Menezes, but Pidadigal’s defense held firm. Pidadigal extended their lead in the 52nd minute with a goal from Mingel Fernandes.
Rumba United’s goalkeeper, Matvey Mascarenhas, who made three crucial saves and performed admirably throughout the match, was presented man-of-the-match award from Seby Martin of Agxem Sports Club.
