MARGAO: United Club of Benaulim rallied from behind to defeat Ambelim Sports Club 5-3 via the tie-breaker to march into the semi-finals of all-Goa Our Lady of Merces inter-village football tournament organized by Sirlim Sports Club, at church ground, Chinchinim, on Thursday. Benaulim were trailing 0-1 at half time.
Ambelim held the slight edge and persistent forays paid off dividends and in the 25th minute striker Richard Fernandes’ volley deflect off the rival goalkeeper, who failed to make a clear collection. As a result the ball rebounded and fell in the path of Tiburcio Fernandes, who was lurking unmarked in the penalty area. and gently tapped in from close range, 1-0.
Post resumption, Benualim put up a better display and their forwards showed urgency and unleashed a couple of pots shots against the rival citadel. Benaulim equalized midway in the second half when Vincy Fernandes unleashed a stiff shot and Benny Silva, under the Ambelim crossbar failed to judge the flight of the ball.
In the ensuing tie-breaker, Santan Fernandes, Xamaro Rodrigues, Vincy Fernandes and Cleston Fernandes were on target for Benaulim while Samson Fernandes and Richard Fernandes converted for Ambelim.
Benaulim will take on United Club of Nerul in the final on August 9.
