MARGAO
UC Benaulim edged out Pedda Boys 1-0 in a thrilling first semi-final of the Benaulim village interward tournament. Despite early dominance by Pedda Boys, a late first-half goal by UC Benaulim secured their place in the finals.
Pedda Boys came out firing, with Yasin and Quinton putting constant pressure on the UC Benaulim defense. In the 15th minute, Josbern nearly broke the deadlock with a powerful shot, but UC keeper Roosevelt made a spectacular save, tipping the ball over the bar for a corner.
The tide turned just before halftime when UC Benaulim's Osbourne whipped in a free kick that took a deflection and found its way into the Pedda Boys net, giving UC a surprising 1-0 lead.
The second half saw Pedda Boys continue their aggressive approach, but UC Benaulim's resolute defense, marshaled by captain Osbourne, Sanvio, and Clifford, stood firm. Roosevelt continued to shine in goal, making several key saves to preserve the lead and earn him the well-deserved Man of the Match award.
