PANAJI
Chinchinim Veterans got the better of Verna Veterans 4-3 via the tie-breaker, thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Francis Fernandes in the Brian Mendes Memorial Football Championship organised by Viva North Veterans Football Club at Dr Gustavo Monteiro football ground, Friday evening.
Despite having former India international and former Dempo SC player Mahesh Lotlikar and Jerry Fernandes (ex-Sesa and Dempo SC) in their ranks, Chinchinim -- which was a better side on paper -- could not polish off the opposition with an outright win, with the match ending deadlocked 1-1 at the end of regular time.
Both Mahesh and Jerry marshalled the midfield and controlled the proceedings for Chinchinim. Midway into the first half, Chinchinim scored through a classic goal after Dominic D’Costa's half volley, almost 30 yards from the goaline, crashed into the nets, beating Verna goalkeeper Roger Oliveira hands down. Minutes later Chinchinim could have added to their lead, but Ivan Fernandes shot wide with only the Verna keeper to beat.
Verna Veterans came close to equalising when Adrian’s powerful 40-yard shot was well saved by Chinchinim goalkeeper Francis Fernandes. Towards the fag end of the first half, Verna found the equalizer. Capitalizing a freekick by Anthony Tavaris, Andrew Teodiosio headed home beating Chinchinim keeper Francis. Just before the breather, Francis effected a brilliant save off a shot from Verna’s Pele. At half time, the teams were locked 1-1.
The second half saw Chinchinim continue to hold sway over the proceedings with Verna periodically attacking the Chinchinim citadel, but neither teams could break the deadlock and the match ended 1-1. In the penalty shootout Francis Fernandes emerged the hero of the day effecting three saves for Chinchinim and was adjudged the man-of-the-match. Chinchinim scored through Jerry Fernandes, Vincent Almeida and Yuri Ferrao, while Minguel D’Souza and surprisingly Mahesh Lotlikar’s shots were parried away by Verna keeper Roger Oliveira. For Verna, Pele Xavier and Adrian Dias managed to score but Chinchinim keeper Francis Fernandes deflected the shots of Elvis Vaz, Xavier Cardozo and Andrew Teodorcio, sending Chinchinim into the next round.
Francis Fernandes of Chinchinim was adjudged the Man of the match and presented the award by chief guest, tiatrist Anil Pednekar.
PLAYING TODAY
Nuvem Veterans vs Quepem Veterans, Dr Gustavo Monteiro football ground, Candolim, 4.45 pm.
