The teams began the match on an attacking note and created a couple of scoring opportunities. Savio Fernandes put Verna ahead latching on to a Stephen pass beating the rival keeper Marshal. Stung by reverse, Calangute fought back and came close to scoring on a couple of occasions but their forwards failed to score.
Subsequently, Jovel Fernandes’ volley was fisted away by the Verna keeper in the 15th minute while Calangute keeper Marshal denied Savio in the 20th minute blocking his try from close. Calangute brought in fresh legs in the form of Heastan Pereira, who managed to draw level in the 22nd minute.
Changing over, Verna managed to regain the lead with Stephen Abranches finding the net from close. Calangute went all out in search of the equalizer but the goal eluded them.
President of Goa Football Association Elvis Gomes was the chief guest and gave away the trophy to the winners and runners-up in the presence of FC Goa’s Mandar Rao Desai, Parish Priest of Arambol Fr Pio Almeida and other dignitaries.
Individual prizes were awarded to the following. Best goalkeeper: Marshal Fernandes of Calangute. Best defender: Stanley Pereira of Verna. Best midfielder: Jovel Fernandes of Calangute. Best forward: Stephen Abranches of Verna. First goal: Savio Fernandes of Verna and Best disciplined team: Margao Parish Youth.
