SANGUEM: Cuncolim Union emerged champions of the 22nd Uguem Rising Cup Intervillage Football Tournament organised by Uguem Rising Club, Uguem-Sanguem, defeating Wilfred Leisure 5-4 in the penalty shoot-out after the final ended in a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time at the URC ground, Uguem.
Playing in front of a large and enthusiastic festive crowd, both teams displayed spirited football, with Cuncolim Union taking the lead in the first half. Wilfred Leisure, however, fought back to find the equaliser in the closing stages of the match, forcing the final into a penalty shoot-out.
In the ensuing penalty shoot-out, Cuncolim Union held their nerve to win 5-4 and lift the coveted trophy.
The champions received a cash prize of Rs 65,000 along with a trophy, while runners-up Wilfred Leisure were awarded Rs 45,000 and a trophy.
The individual awards were presented to Brijesh Shilke of Cuncolim Union (Best Defender), Viraj Gaonkar of Cuncolim Union (Best Goalkeeper), Melvin Fernandes of Wilfred Leisure (Man of the Match and Player of the Tournament), Sachin Prabhakar Velip of Cuncolim Union (First Goal of the Final) and Varca Sports Club (Best Disciplined Team).
On the occasion, young village football talent Anil Gaonkar, who has displayed excellent potential in the game, was felicitated at the hands of Churchill Alemao. Other upcoming local talents were also recognised, including Olivia for her excellence in athletics and Muriel Fernandes for her achievements in chess. Fr Ivo Fernandes was also felicitated for being the first Parish Priest of Our Lady of Piety Church, Uguem.
The prizes were distributed at the hands of Chief Guest Churchill Alemao in the presence of Fr Ivo Fernandes, Jude D'Costa, Anil Gaonkar, Fr Pascoal Fernandes, Panchayat Member Elvira Fernandes, Sr Damaciana, Jack Paul Colaco, John Vaz, Jervis Fernandes, Jason Pereira, Melvin Cabo and others.
