TEAM HERALD
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: St Mathias Boys, Divar overcame American Pie, Zuari, 2-1 to romp into the final of London Cup soccer tournament organised by Siridao Boys at River Plate Siridao Sports Club ground on Saturday.
The match was played at a very quick tempo as both teams were eager to take the lead. The opening minutes saw both teams create numerous chances.
St Mathias gradually took control of the match the pressurized the Zuari defence with quick passing and lots of movement in the opposition area. They successfully broke down the defence and shot into the lead in the 15th minute as Ajay rocketed the ball into the back of the net after a patient build-up.
St Mathias led 1-0 at half time.
In the second half American Pie regrouped and came out with renewed vigour as they dominated proceedings however their hard work was undone by lacklustre finishing. St Mathias’ keeper also produced a couple of spectacular saves to keep his side in the lead.
Zuari’s Steven shot wide from close range with only the goalkeeper to beat and then missed a free header as he angled his header wide.
St Mathias then turned the tables on the match by breaking out of their defensive mindset and mounted patient attacks. In the 20th minute Ajay netted the 2nd after a wonderful passing move to double the lead.
Down by two goals, American Pie surged ahead to salvage the match and found a reducer in the 25the minute to make it 2-1.They desperately went in search of the equaliser but it was not to be as referee Menino Afonso blew the final whistle.
St Mathias will now play Mormugao United in the final the final on April 28.
