MARGAO
Ambelim SC edged out Sao Jose de Areal SC in a thrilling penalty shootout to reach the final of the 2nd Fr. Bruno Leitao Memorial Cup 2024. The match, played on Monday at Chinchinim church ground.
Ambelim started strong, with Semson Fernandes forcing a save from the Areal goalkeeper early on. They dominated possession with Michal Silva pulling the strings in midfield. Areal almost took the lead in the 14th minute when Bersal Viegas broke free, but Ambelim custodian Benny Silva produced a magnificent save to deny him. The first half ended scoreless despite both teams having their chances.
The second half continued in the same vein, with both sides searching for the breakthrough. Velroy Fernandes of Ambelim came close with a header that was cleared off the line by a desperate Areal defender in the 52nd minute. However, the deadlock couldn't be broken, forcing the game into a penalty shootout.
Ambelim held their nerve in the shootout, converting all five penalties through Micheal Silva, Velroy Fernandes, Leister Fernandes, Semson Fernandes, and Blasco Fernandes while Bersal Viegas, Tyson Carvalho, and Ashnoy Gomes found the net for Areal.
Velroy Fernandes was adjudged the player of the match for his impressive performance, receiving the award from Vibav Alave, Secretary of the Village Panchayat Chinchinim-Deussua.
