Team Herald
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RAIA: United Club of Nerul came from behind to clinch a narrow 2-1 victory over Navelim Villagers Union to move into the next round of 26th Our Lady of Merces All-Goa 8-a-side football tournament organised by Sirlim Sports Club at the Chinchinim Church ground, on Thursday.
Navelim Villagers Union made their intentions clear early on in the game, opening the scoring in the 7th minute through a fine strike by Vellon Rebello. However, their lead was short-lived, as UC Nerul’s Royce Gonsalves levelled the scores in the 25th minute with a deftly placed goal.
Despite both teams making some serious advances, the match remained locked at 1-1 at the lemon break.
The second half saw UC Nerul shifting gears, with Marcus Fernandes giving his side the lead in the 50th minute after a swift counter-attack leaving theNavelim Villagers defence bewildered. Navelim Villagers Union fought hard to find the equaliser, with Vellon and Ronaldo Pereira making several dangerous runs into the UC Nerul’s half.
However, the UC Nerul goalkeeper Kurpesh Bandodkar stood tall, denying them with a series of crucial saves.