the goan I network
MARGAO
Cavelossim Tourist Taxi Association edged past Benaulim Tourist Taxi Association 4-3 to win the 1st South Goa Tourist Taxi and Drivers 8-a-side football tournament organised in memory of their members Patricio Luis, Marcus Rodrigues and John DCosta, in a pulsating final at Fr Druston Wellington ground, Cavelossim on Saturday.
Both the teams displayed attacking brand of soccer and kept the crowds on their toes. However it was Benaulim who broke the deadlock in the very 4th minute when James beat the rival goalkeeper with an adroit placement. Stung by the early setback and backed by a vociferous home crowd, Cavelossim fought gallantly and neutralised the lead when Alex punted the ball to the far corner of the net. The equaliser boosted the morale of the Cavelossim team as they upped the ante and Charles found the lead in the 14th minute. James put the issue beyond doubt when he punished the rival goalkeeper with a neat finish in the 16th minute.
Crossing over, Benaulim put up an improved display with their forwards troubling the rival defence with well orchestrated raids. Casmiro reduced the margin soon after resumption. Casmiro, who was in thick action, struck a second time and cancelled the lead in the 46th minute. With match heading for the tiebreaker, Charles struck the match winner at the fag end.
Cavelossim Tourists Taxi Association were richer by Rs 15,000 while Benaulim Tourist Taxi Association bagged Rs 10,000. Colva Tourist Taxi Association bagged best disciplined team award. Benaulim MLA Churchill Alemao was the chief guest and gave away the prizes in the presence of guest of honour Dionizio Dias, sarpanch of VP Cavelossim and other dignitaries.
