Uguem Rising Club players receive their prize.
MARGAO
Uguem Rising Club emerged champions of the 19th All Goa Guirdolim Panchayat Cup after defeating Wilred Leisure Sports Club, Curtorim, 2-0 in the final played at the Chandor Church sports complex on Sunday.
Uguem enjoyed the early advantage, with forwards Rutik Bandodkar and Pratamesh consistently troubling the Wilred defence. Midfielder Austin played a key role in launching attacks with accurate long balls.
The breakthrough came in the ninth minute when Uguem earned a free-kick just outside the penalty area on the left. Pratamesh floated the ball into the box and Austin rose to head it into the net, giving Uguem the lead.
Wilred responded with a brief spell of pressure, striking the crossbar once and forcing Uguem goalkeeper Tejas into a fine save. However, Uguem doubled their advantage in the 18th minute when Rutik went on a counter-attack, dribbled past the Wilred defenders and calmly placed the ball beyond the goalkeeper. With that goal, Rutik became the only player to score in every match of the tournament. The scoreline remained unchanged at half-time.
After the break, Wilred pushed forward in search of a comeback and created several chances, but Tejas produced two crucial saves to keep his side ahead. Uguem adopted a more defensive approach in the second half, successfully protecting their lead to clinch the title.
Leader of the Opposition and Cuncolim MLA Yuri Alemao was the chief guest and presented the prizes. He was joined by guest of honour Fr Jean Da Cruz, special invitees Sonia Fernandes, Fiel Dias, Egidio D’Costa, Fr Afzal Fernandes, Sandeep Kalekar, Joao Peixoto and members of the Village Panchayat of Guirdolim. Guirdolim Club president Sudesh Bhise welcomed the gathering, while treasurer Darwin Cardoso proposed the vote of thanks.
AWARDS
Up-and-coming Player of Guirdolim Club: Joyston Peixoto, Best Disciplined Team: Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda, Best Defender of the Final: Austin (Uguem RC), Best Midfielder of the Final: Ryan Fernandes (Wilred Leisure SC), Best Striker of the Final: Anselmo Fernandes (Wilred Leisure SC), Best Goalkeeper of the Final: Tejas (Uguem RC), Player of the Final: Pratamesh (Uguem), Player of the Tournament: Rutik Bandodkar (Uguem RC)
