MARGAO
United Boys of Ambaulim held their nerve to defeat Guirdolim Sports Club 8-7 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a gripping 1-1 draw in regulation time in a pulsating semi-final of the Anil Kamat Memorial Tournament.
In just the second minute, Savlon Fernandes of Ambaulim tested Guirdolim’s goalkeeper Oswin Rodrigues with a powerful free kick, but Rodrigues was up to the task. A minute later, Guirdolim nearly struck through Akram Yadwad, but Ibon Fernandes stood firm in goal for Ambaulim.
The deadlock was broken in the 18th minute when Richard Fernandes gave Guirdolim SC the lead, slotting home after a fine assist from Moises D’sa. But just before halftime, Alex Fernandes equalized for Ambaulim with a cool finish in the 44th minute, ensuring both teams went into the break level at 1-1.
The second half was filled with chances, especially for Ambaulim, but Guirdolim’s goalkeeper Rodrigues continued to make key saves, pushing the game to penalties.
In a tense tie-breaker, Ambaulim saw successful conversions from Dailon Carvalho (twice), Bradley Carvalho, Sowell Fernandes, Savlon Fernandes, Jesvan Fernandes, and Julius Carvalho. Girdolim SC responded through Mario Fernandes, Richard Fernandes, Ashwell Peixoto, Akram Yadwad, Sevaraj D’Costa, and Joquim Carvalho.
