MARGAO
Parish Youth Nuvem triumphed over Guardian Angel Sports Club with a 1-0 victory in the finals of the UCT Trophy 9-a-side Intervillage Football Tournament, held at the Government Primary School ground in Telaulim on Sunday.
Nuvem secured the win thanks to Joywin D'Costa's solitary goal.
In a highly anticipated final, both teams played an attacking and fast-paced style of football, creating several chances to score. The match's only goal came in the first half, when Joywin found the back of the net, giving Nuvem the lead. This goal proved to be the match-winner, as Guardian Angel couldn’t find an equaliser.
Over 2,000 spectators gathered to witness the intense showdown, and the atmosphere was electric as the teams showcased their talents in front of a passionate crowd.
The awards ceremony was graced by Churchill Alemao, former chief minister and member of parliament, who was the chief guest. He presented the prizes alongside Adv Valanka Alemao, AIFF Women’s Football Committee Chairperson, Rev Fr Gabriel Coutinho, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Rosary Church, Navelim. Other dignitaries in attendance included Rev Fr Valentine Alvares, Edwin Cardozo (Zilla Panchayat Member), Michael Cardozo (Sarpanch of VP Navelim), Dr Francis Lobo (CDPE), and several prominent figures from the football community.
Awards were presented in various categories, with Macknino Colaco of Nuvem receiving the Best Goalkeeper of the Finals award, Dravid Fernandes of Guardian Angel named the Best Defender, and Godwin Fernandes of Guardian Angel earning the Best Midfielder of the Final. Joywin D’Costa was awarded both Best Striker and First Goal of the Final. Special awards included the Best Disciplined Team, which was presented to Maina Sports Club.
