MARGAO: Betalbatim SC advanced to the next round of the 35th Super Soccer Tournament after defeating Fr Agnel SC, Paroda 5-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the St John the Baptist Panchayat Ground, Benaulim. The tournament is organised by United Boys of Dando Colva.
Paroda's efforts paid off in the 17th minute when Steve Menezes set up a well-worked move that ended with Paroda taking a deserved 1-0 lead.
Betalbatim came out with renewed purpose in the second half. Dickson Rogtao and Riyan Asampor dictated play in midfield, while substitute Selroy added urgency to the attack. The equaliser arrived when Paroda goalkeeper Joyson failed to hold onto a loose ball, allowing Jesus Ferrao to react quickest and slot home from close range.
Paroda pushed hard for a winner, but Betalbatim goalkeeper Raynell Pereira produced a string of crucial saves to force the match into a tiebreaker.
Betalbatim kept their nerve from the spot, with Ashley, Flacio, Elroy and Selroy converting successfully, while Godwin Fernandes was the lone scorer for Paroda as Betalbatim completed a 5-2 victory.
Steve Menezes of Fr Agnel SC Paroda was named Man of the Match. The award was presented by international footballer and Pax of Nagoa SC coach Mateus Costa.
