MARGAO
In an absorbing encounter, Salgaocar Veterans held sway in the first session but despite the dominance the green brigade failed to test the rival goalkeeper Camilo Barretto with inept shooting by Jose Siddi and Prem Dias. Nuvem made sporadic raids but striker Francisco Vodlo was well marked by Salgaocar defenders Roque Carneiro and Bento Rodrigues.
After the change of ends, Nuvem took the initiative through midfielder Mathew D'Costa, Marcus Carvalho and Bobby Crasto who combined effortlessly to put their rivals on the back foot. Salgaocar citadel almost fell in the 42nd minute when Santan Furtado sent in a cross to Mathew D'Costa whose goal bound header was cleared off the goalline by Bento Rodrigues.
Salgaocar were on the defensive and goalkeeper Bharat Morje punched out a long range effort of Marcus Carvalho in the 48th minute to keep the scores level.
Nuvem finally found the goal which ultimately proved to be the match winner when substitute Anthony Patiu ran on to a Baptist D'Mello pass on the right and sent in a curling cross where another substitute Andrew Teodorio struck a right-footed volley past the dazzled Morje with just five minutes left for the final whistle.
Earlier, former Goa Santosh Trophy coach and Dempo footballer Soccoro Coutinho, who was the Chief guest, was introduced to the teams by Savio Pereira.
