MAPUSA: Super Goans made their mark at the All-India Youth Football Tournament in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. Super Goa teams triumphed in the U-14 and U-12 categories, and were the runners-up in the U-16 final.
A total of 30 teams took part in the tournament across all age groups. In the U-12 final, Super 30 ‘B’ edged past SSFA Rangers 2-1 with goals scored by Avnish Rathod and Keyan Koya.
For the third place in U-12, Super 30 ‘A’ trounced SSFA 3-0 with goals from Saksham Kudnekar, Palash Naik and Aaryan Naik.
In the U-14 final, Super 30 were locked goalless against LFA in normal time but had the last laugh in the tie-breaker 4-2 with goals from Jonas Fernandes, Alfie Thorn, Joel Passoni and Noaman Shah.
In the U-16 summit clash, Super 30 went down fighting 0-2 to Stepover. In the U-12 category, Avnish Rathod was recognised as the Best Emerging Player, showcasing outstanding talent and potential. In the U-14 category, Alfie Thorn clinched the title of Top Scorer, demonstrating remarkable scoring prowess.
For the U-16 team, Arjun Blower was awarded Best Goalkeeper, marking his exceptional skills in the goal.
The team’s success was also rewarded financially, with the U-14 team winning Rs 41,000 and the U-12 and U-16 teams each receiving Rs 25,000, along with prestigious trophies.
The Candolim Village Panchayat’s involvement and the substantial parental support have been instrumental in fostering a nurturing environment for these young athletes. Super 30’s accomplishments at the tournament, against teams – SSFA, LFA Pune, and Stepover Football Academy – are a testament to the potential of youth football in India and the impact of community and family support in sports.
