TEAM HERALD
PANJIM: United Club of Nerul huffed and puffed to overcome a spirited Guardian Angle Sports Clube 1-0 to move into the quarter-finals of 8th London Trophy organised by Goa Velha Sports Club, at Goa Velha ground, on Thursday.
The teams crossed over with the scoreboard remaining blank.
Anthony Dias of Guardian Angel made the first move by taking a couple of Nerul defenders in his stride and blasted towards the goal but Sidesh Morje parried the ball to safety.
United Club of Nerul’s Manuel Crasto soon floated a corner in the Guardian Angel box but Stanly D’Silva blasted over the cross bar from close range.
Immediately, Jolip Simoes was a bit late in his move as Guardian Angle keeper Olten rushed out and punched the ball to safety.
After the break, Guardian Angel were first to make a serious effort. Godfrey placed the ball for overlapping Cajetan, whose shot just sailed over. Rosario had another crack at the Nerul goal but it was easily dealt with by keeper Sidesh.
At the other end a long shot from the right flank from Canute just dipped over Guardian goal. The very next moment, Rajat let go a stiff grounder, which was pushed out for an abortive corner by a diving Olten.
Soon Canute was brilliantly set up by Manuel but the former shot over with only keeper at his mercy.
Guardian Angel had a glorious chance as Cajetan pass went across the face of Nerul goal with nobody to score.
United Club Nerul at the fag end secured the winner as Russel cut in from the right and passed the ball to Canute who pushed the ball for a better placed Manuel, who only had to tap the ball in.
Guardian Angel had a last chance with keeper Sidesh out of place. Patrick went agonisingly close to Nerul goal but his try hit upright and went out.
