Team Herald
BENAULIM: Salgaocar Veterans emerged victorious in the 16th V M Salgaocar Memorial Veterans Soccer Tournament, organized by Prime Sports Club, registering a solitary goal victory over Benaulim Veterans, at St John the Baptist ground, Dando-Benaulim on Sunday.
Striker Seby Vaz netted the all important goal for the winners.
Salgaocar made a bright start with striker Seby Vaz and Steve Furtado constantly troubling the rival defence.
Salgaocar made the breakthrough when striker Seby Vaz capitalized on a loose ball inside the area to beat Benaulim Goalkeeper Costao Silva in the 18th minute.
After change of ends, Benaulim medios Bobby Crasto and Alex Alvares got going but striker Mohammed Bepari and Francisco Vodlo were ineffective.
Salgaocar also defended well to protect their slender lead with Roque Carneiro and Baptist D’Mello defending their citadel.
Benaulim substitute striker Pele Fernandes broke down the middle and struck a right footer, but Salgaocar Goalkeeper Virender Singh made a terrific save in the dying minutes of the match.
Fisheries Minister Avertano Furtado was the chief guest for the final and gave away the prizes to the winners and runners-up in the presence of Benaulim MLA Caetano R D’Silva.
Salgaocar Veterans were richer by Rs 25,000 and a trophy while the runners-up Benaulim Veterans had to contend with Rs 20,000 and a trophy.
