MARGAO
In a thrilling finale, Santa Cruz Society Poitomado triumphed over Fr Agnelo YSC Paroda 6-5 in a dramatic tiebreaker to win the 13th Oour Lady of Fatima Soccer Cup, organized by the Dicarpale Sports Club, at the Dicaraple football ground on Sunday.
The match was marked by an intense attacking display from both teams, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats. Fr Agnelo YSC took an early lead with a goal from Livon Clement in the 5th minute. However, Santa Cruz responded quickly, with Viraj Velip finding the net in the 15th minute, assisted by Daulat Dessai.
The second half was equally action-packed as both teams pressed for a winning goal, but neither could break the deadlock, leading to a tense tiebreaker.
In the shootout, Poitomado's Viraj Velip, Mathew Fernandes, Bradley Carvalho, Ravesh Velip, and Ansh Patel successfully converted their penalties. For Fr Agnelo YSC, Melroy Fernandes, Kanchan Kiro, Omkar Gaonkar, and Reagan Costa all stepped up to score, but their efforts fell short.
The prize distribution ceremony featured Dr Caetano Fernandes, president of the Goa Football Association, as the chief guest. He presented awards alongside Fr Joaquim Fernandes, parish priest of Dicarpale, Cruz Silva, MLA of Velim, and several other dignitaries.
Individual awards included: First Scorer of the Final: Livon Clement (Fr Agnelo YSC); Best Goalkeeper of the Final: Hrishikesh Gaonkar (Santa Cruz Society Poitomado); Best Midfielder of the Final: Bradley Carvalho (Santa Cruz Society Poitomado); Best Player of the Tournament: Melson Fernandes (Fr. Agnelo YSC); Best Defender of the Final: Shankar Gaonkar (Santa Cruz Society Poitomado); Best Disciplined Team: United Club of Seraulim.
GFA executive member Vincent Carvalho welcomed the guests and proposed a vote of thanks to conclude an action-packed tournament.
