the goan I network
MARGAO
Bardez Veterans beat Viva North Goa Veterans 4-2 via tiebreaker to win the First All Goa Assolna Veterans football tournament organised by Assolna Veterans, in an exciting final at SAG ground, Assolna. Both the teams were tied 1-1 at full time.
Bardez Veterans came close to surging ahead but Viva North Goa Veterans goalkeeper came to his side’s rescue by palming away rival striker Alexander Fernandes’s snap shot. Former India captain Bruno Coutinho, who did most of the passing for winners, had his own attempt hit the side netting. Viva North Goa Veterans nearly broke the deadlock but Ramesh Palkar’s rasping shot found the side netting from close range. Ramesh Palkar had another chance but his try hit the crossbar.
Pascoal Pereira, who played a stellar role for his side, unleashed a shot that missed the target narrowly. Bardez Veterans’ breakthrough came in the 16th minute when striker Augustine Rodrigues beat the rival goalkeeper with a clinical finish off Ramesh Virondhar.
Post resumption, Viva North Goa Veterans too had their share of chances and looked to score in the initial period of the second half but their forwards fumbled at crucial moments. With the time running out, Viva North Goa Veterans made last-ditch efforts and they scored as Pascoal Pereira cancelled the lead with a stiff shot.
In the ensuing tie-breaker, Bruno Coutinho, Narendra Gaad, Alexander Fernandes and Mohan Parab found the mark for Bardez Veterans while only Alex Alvares and Ravi Pednekar converted for Viva North Goa. Bardez Veterans were awarded Rs 25,0000 while Viva North Goa Veterans had to settle for Rs 20,000. Individual prizes: Best goalkeeper - Domnic D’Souza (Bardez Veterans), Best striker - Pascoal Pereira (Viva Veterans), Best defender - Ramesh Palkar (Viva Veterans).
Benjamin Silva, former FIFA assistant referee, was the chief guest and gave away the prizes. Former Velim MLA Benjamin Silva was
also present.
