MARGAO: Arlem Youth Association, Raia edged past Fr Agnelo Youth Sports Club, Paroda 6-5 in a thrilling penalty shoot-out to win their opening match of the 18th All Goa Guirdolim Panchayat Cup, at Chandor Church Sports Complex, on Saturday.
The match was a tightly contested affair from the start. Paroda came out strong, creating two clear chances in the first five minutes, but their strikers were off target. Arlem's defense held firm, and the first half ended in a goalless stalemate.
After the break, Arlem, led by Garvison Fernandes, took control of the match. They came close to breaking the deadlock in the 40th minute but Paroda's goalkeeper made a spectacular save to deny them. In the dying minutes, Paroda had a golden opportunity to seal the win, but Regan Costa missed a sitter from point-blank range, leaving the match to go into penalties.
In the ensuing tiebreaker, Arlem showed composure under pressure, converting all six of their spot kicks. Paroda, however, faltered as Pravesh Borkar's attempt was saved by the Arlem keeper.
Garvison Fernandes of Arlem was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance throughout the game.
Earlier, the tournament was officially opened by Frankie Rodrigues, former Deputy Sarpanch, who was joined by Chief Guest Sonia Fernandes, Sarpanch of Guirdolim.
