TEAM HERALD
sports@herald-goa.com
MARGAO: Joel Niasso’s strike in injury time of the first half helped United Club of Telaulim (UCT) to register a hard earned 1-0 victory over Raia Sporting Club in their Salcete Zone GFA Second Division League at Curtorim ground, Wednesday.
The opening session turned out to be an even contest. UCT took control and created a couple of forays but their forwards were lethargic after reaching the rival danger zone. At the other end, Raia took time to settle down and once they struck rhythm, they called the shots against the rival citadel. Both goalkeepers had a field day as they were hardly tested by the forwards.
The lone goal came in the injury time when Xavier Luis’ rasping shot deflected off rival goalkeeper Richard Rodrigues’ hand and the lurking Joel Niasso took advantage of the rebound and placed the ball to the far corner of the net.
Crossing over, Raia suffered a blow when midfielder Vishnu Singh was ejected by referee Judas Luis after he received his second yellow card.
Midway in the second half, Raia nearly broke the deadlock when Danny Dias’ rasping shot was blocked by Telaulim goalkeeper Sachin Ashtekar for an abortive flag kick.
After the scare, UCT had a golden chance to double the lead but midfielder Daulat Dessai shot wide after Xavier Luis put him on the platter. Later, Berwyn Telles’ shot missed the target narrowly.
UCT had a couple of opportunities but Daulat and Paxton Gomes failed to convert the chances that came their way.
With this win, UCT collected six points from two encounters and top the group while Raia suffered their first reverse and have three points from the number of encounters.
