MARGAO
Dark horses Dunes SC Mandrem pipped Cuncolim Union 1-0 to storm into the finals of the Jaju Memorial Trophy football tournament organised by Young Strikers Benulim at St John Baptist Grounds, Dando Benaulim on Tuesday.In an exciting encounter which kept the large crowds on their toes, the Mandrem outfit got the all-important match-winner through the boots of striker Arun Naik.
Dunes produced thrilling football with their short quick passes but were unable to find the breakthrough despite their dominance largely due to the resilience of the Cuncolim defence. Cuncolim goalkeeper Hrishekesh Gaonkar stretched full length to push out a low right footer of rival striker Pratik Kannaik to keep the score blank going into half-time.
The second session saw both the teams going out for the goal but Mandrem's striker Arun Naik and Anthony Lobo's long-range efforts went inches over the crosspiece to the utter frustration of the crowd who were supporting the North Goa side.
Cuncolim also had their moments with striker Denvil Fernandes shooting wide from inside the box. Dunes were constantly on the prowl and finally went ahead in the 63rd minute when their mercurial playmaker Vinay Harji threaded a fine ball on the left wing for Arun who sped past rival defender Astrofio Pinto before getting himself in a position to flick the ball with his right foot over the reach of Cuncolim goalie Hrishikesh into the far corner of the net to the joy of his players.
With time running out, Cuncolim had a fantastic opportunity for the equaliser when the hardworking midfielder Allister Fernandes created an opening for Tushar Gaonkar but the winger shot straight into the hands of Dunes goalkeeper Pratik Sawant. Cuncolim went all out but Mandrem stoppers Jagganath Somji and skipper Vivek Kannulkar stood rock solid to protect the lead and take Mandrem through to the finals on their first appearance in Benaulim.
Friends Circle of Bhoma beat Akar Warriors
MARGAO: Friends Circle of Bhoma beat Akar Warriors 2-0 in the 8-a-side football tournament organised by United Sports Club Mardol at Mardol Ground in Ponda on Sunday. Ravindra of Bhoma struck both goals for the club in the 5th and 16th minutes respectively.
