MARGAO: Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda booked their place in the quarterfinals after edging past Canacona SCC 5-3 in a penalty shootout following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Don Bosco made the brighter start and took the lead in the 11th minute when Glen Fernandes curled a direct free-kick into the net. Canacona responded with determined attacks but were repeatedly denied by a disciplined Don Bosco defence, as the Fatorda side carried a 1-0 lead into the half-time break.
Canacona came out with renewed purpose after the restart and were rewarded in the 41st minute when Pralhad rose highest to head home from a corner, restoring parity.
With neither side able to find a winner in the remaining minutes, the contest was decided by a penalty shootout. Don Bosco held their nerve from the spot, converting their chances with precision to seal a 5-3 victory and secure a place in the last eight.
Glen Fernandes was named Player of the Match for his match-defining performance. The award was presented by UCV President Edgar Costa.
