MARGAO
Bandoi Boys successfully defended their title in the II Edoviso & Julieta Dias Memorial Soccer 2023 tournament, organised by Santa Cruz Club Of Cavelossim at Fr Druston & Wellington ground, Cavelossim. They defeated a promising new-look team of Rodrigues Youth in a thrilling match that ended in a tiebreaker with a score of 5-4. The teams were locked at 1-1 at full time.
In the first half, the match was confined to the midfield. Asher of Bandoi took two snap shots at the Rodrigues goal, but Samuel, the best keeper of the final, saved them both. Crossing over, Flenco took a long throw from the left side, which Johan cleared. However, the ball fell to an unmarked Khaja Nadaf, who scored from close range.
Rodrigues Youth fought hard to restore parity, and when it seemed that Bandoi Boys would win, Rodrigues' full-back, Johan, moved up front and shot powerfully towards the goal. The ball hit the goal post and rebounded from the keeper into the Bandoi nylons, taking the match into the tiebreaker.
Asher, Flenco, Khaja, Davin, and Charles were on target for Bandoi Boys, while Dannon, Crison, Blayne, and Johan scored for Rodrigues. The chief guest was Flory Dias and Fr Saude Pereira of Cavelossim Parish, along with Dixon Vaz, Sarpanch of Cavelossim, who were the guests of honour. The tournament was sponsored by Octaviano Dias of Cavelossim. Natty Fernandes compered the function, while secretary Viriato Mendes proposed a vote of thanks.
