PANJIM: Rossman Cruz, Nagoa-Verna, defeated Saligao United 8-7 via the tie-breaker to move into the semi-finals of 23rd Vagator Soccer at Vagator Parish Youth Sports Club ground, Tuesday. The teams were level 2-2 at full time.
Saligao United managed to take the lead in the 3rd minute through Michael Dias. In the 9th minute Rossman Cruz had an opportunity to level the score when Ajay Satakar fed Savio Fernandes who, however, shot above the woodwork.
Saligao United doubled their lead in the 17th minute. Nikhil Naik sent a through ball to Michael Dias whose shot found the back of the net. Goalkeeper Pranav Kotharkar of Rossman Cruz effected a double save in the 25th minute as he first denied Michael Dias from scoring his hat-trick and later parried a hot shot from Latesh Mandrekar.
Rossman Cruz tried to get back in the game as Clifton Rebello came close to scoring twice in the 26th and 27th minutes. Noel D’silva pulled one back for Rossman Cruz as he scored from a corner kick taken by Savio Fernandes just before the half time.
After the breather, Rossman Cruz dominated play. Savio Fernandes squared to Shubham Dessai whose shot was, however, saved by goalkeeper Agnelo Fernandes.
In the 58th minute Saligao United goalkeeper brought down Hilton Fernandes in the penalty area. Savio Fernandes scored the equalizer from the penalty spot.
Savio F, Imam, Savio P, Hilton, Noel, Clifton Ajay, Joyston scored for Rossman Cruz. Nestor, Crespo, Nikhil, Latesh, Michael, Jayganesh, Alino converted for Saligao United.
The man-of-the match prize was awarded to Clifton Rebello of Rossman Cruz by Pedro Mendonca.
