Team Herald
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RAIA: United Club of Verna were crowned champions of the 33rd Arlem Rolling Trophy football tournament after a 2-0 victory over Shiroda Youth Club in the final, held at the Raia Panchayat ground on Sunday. The tournament was organised by the Arlem Youth Association.
In a fast-paced encounter, both sides had opportunities in the opening session, with Jesloy Moniz (United Club of Verna) and Elton Cruz (Shiroda Youth Club) unable to convert their chances.
The deadlock was broken in the 51st minute when Clifton Rebello found the net for United Club of Verna. Their advantage was doubled just nine minutes later, with Fulganco Cardozo adding a second goal to seal the win.
United Club of Verna received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a trophy, while runners-up Shiroda Youth Club took home Rs 70,000 and a trophy.
The prizes were presented by Rajesh Faldessai, chairman of the Goa Rehabilitation Board and MLA of the Cumbarjua Assembly Constituency. He was joined by Domnic Gauncar (ZP member, Raia), Mario D’Souza (sarpanch, VP Raia), Anthony Pango (vice-president, GFA South Goa), Andrew Ferrao (GFA executive member), Cosme Oliveira (GFA executive member), Luis Caetano Quadros (president, Raia Sporting Club), Shrikant Sawant (president, Youth Club Manora), Jerome Colaco, other dignitaries, and club officials.