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RAIA: Santa Cruz Poitamado stunned Ambelim SC with a 5-4 victory on penalties to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the Cavelossim Panchayat Cup, organised by the Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim and held at the Fr Druston and Wellington ground, Cavelossim.
Despite fielding a youthful and inexperienced side against Ambelim’s seasoned players, led by veteran Samson Fernandes, Santa Cruz displayed remarkable grit and resilience. Goalkeeper Hrishikesh Gaonkar played a pivotal role in their triumph.
Ambelim took an early lead in the 10th minute when Asfin Pinto latched onto a through pass from Arvind Fernandes and scored from a tight angle. They nearly doubled their advantage, but Asfin’s powerful strike from outside the box rattled the crossbar.
Santa Cruz responded with determination, forcing successive corners. From a well-taken corner by Hagan Diniz, Makario Fernandes rose high to head the ball home, levelling the score at 1-1.
After the interval, both teams pressed for a winner. Ambelim came closest when Blasco Fernandes unleashed a 40-yard effort, but Gaonkar’s sharp save denied the goal. Samson’s rebound attempt was also thwarted by the vigilant keeper.
In the penalty shootout, Santa Cruz converted all five of their spot kicks through Mathew Fernandes, Ansh Peter, Viraj Velip, Rowan Gaonkar, and Shanka Gaonkar. Ambelim’s Velroy, Michael, Roswin, and Lester found the target, but Ben Fernandes’ effort was blocked by Gaonkar, sealing Santa Cruz’s dramatic victory.
Asfin Pinto of Ambelim SC was presented man-of-the-match award by the chief guest, Carmo Rodrigues, of Novotel, Cavelossim.
