MARGAO: Both the teams were served by former national and international players in their ranks and entertained the crowds by playing attacking soccer. Bardez Veterans were the first to strike the rhythm and former India captain Bruno Coutinho moved inside the rival penalty box like a panther. However Alfred Fernandes was quick in thwarting him. Monti Veterans came close in breaking the deadlock when Alfred Fernandes’ snap shot was well blocked by Bardez Veterans goalkeeper in the 12th minute. Monti Veterans broke the deadlock in the 15th minute when Jose Pereira broke the deadlock. Stung by the early reversal, Bardez Veterans went into attacking mode when Bruno Coutinho’s pile driver eluded the rival goalkeeper to put his team on equal terms in the 20th minute. A minute later, Jose Pereira regained the lead for Benaulim team to record his brace. However, their joy was short lived and a minute later Alvin Fernandes of Bardez Veterans cancelled the lead. Jose Pereira who was in the thick of action struck a hat-trick in the 48th minute. With the match drifting towards Monti Veterans, Bruno Coutinho equalized for Bardez Veterans, who had the last laugh in the penalty shootout. Earlier, Curtorim Veterans prevailed over Quepem Veterans 6-4 via tiebreaker to cruise into the quarterfinals. Both the teams were locked 3-3 at full time.
In the ensuing tie-breaker, Curtorim veterans netted through Roque Carneiro,Seby Faleiro and James D’Costa while only Roque Fernandes was successful for Quepem Veterans.
