MARGAO
St Anthony’s Sports Club, Assolda, delivered a composed and clinical performance to storm into the quarterfinals of the 24th Fr. Basilio Andrade Memorial Tournament with a commanding 3–0 victory over St Sebastiao Youth Club, Murida, at the Musson Ground, Majorda.
Murida began the brighter side, controlling early possession and tempo with sharp passing and attacking intent. Hanslum Furtado twice tested Assolda goalkeeper Oswin Rodrigues from distance, while Nicolau Borges’ close-range header also drew a fine save from the custodian, who kept his team afloat during a testing opening spell.
However, Assolda struck first against the run of play. Vitorino Fernandes, lively on the right flank, darted into the box and squared a low pass across goal for Sunny Fernandes, who arrived at the far post to tap in and make it 1–0, completely shifting the momentum.
Murida had chances to equalize — Edison Dias shot narrowly wide after a neat setup from Nicolau Borges, and Valito Miranda’s curling effort from the edge of the area just missed the upright. Those wasted opportunities proved costly as Assolda began to dominate proceedings with confidence and flair.
Their persistence paid off when Fhezer Gomes, dangerous down both wings, dribbled past his marker and delivered a precise low cross for Vitorino, who calmly slotted home to double Assolda’s lead.
Fhezer then sealed the result in style, capping his impressive performance with a stunning third — cutting in from the left and rifling a powerful strike into the far corner to make it 3–0 and put the contest beyond reach.
Valito Miranda of St Sebastiao Murida was adjudged Man of the Match for his tireless and committed display, and received the award from Roger Braganza.
