PANJIM: Rossman Cruz Sports Club, Nagoa-Verna defeated Navelim Villagers Union 5-3 via tie-breaker to lift the 2nd Matanhy Saldanha memorial cup organized by Velsao Villagers, at Dr T B Da Cunha sports complex, Cansaulim, on Sunday.
The teams were tied goalless at full time.
Verna started attackingly with Razor Braganza, captain Eusebio Fernandes and Santana Rego combining well but could not score. Santana missed an open chance.
Navelim also attacked following a long throw in by Delrick Gomes but a strong glancing header by Bittu Singh was saved by Verna goal keeper Frankey Abranches.
In quick succession Navelim’s Aulon Gomes’ powerful shot hit the crossbar and rebounded into play.
In the tie-breaker, Savio Fernandes, Frankey Fernandes, Santana Rego and Manuel Moniz scored for Verna.
Only Bittu Singh scored for Navelim while tries of Avlon Gomes and Nevin Pereira were saved by Frankey Abranches. Minister for Forest and Environment Alina Saldanha gave away the glittering trophy and cash prize to the winners.
The runners-up had to be content with Rs 30,000 and a trophy. Individual prizes were awarded to upcoming player Vicky Gaokar of Manora-Raia, Best disciplined team Betalbatim Sports Club, first scorer of the final Savio Fernandes of Verna.
Salvador D’Souza, treasurer of Velsao Villagers Association compered and later proposed the vote of thanks.
