MARGAO
Guardian Angel SC, Curchorem were crowned champions of the 35th Super Soccer Tournament after defeating UC Verna 9-8 in a thrilling penalty shoot-out following a gripping 2-2 draw in the final organised by United Boys of Dando, Colva, at the St John the Baptist Panchayat Ground, Benaulim, on Sunday.
Backed by a large Sunday crowd, Guardian Angel made a dream start, taking a two-goal lead through Valentino Carvalho in the ninth minute and Regan Costa in the 15th minute.
UC Verna staged a spirited comeback, with Desmond Pereira pulling one back in first-half stoppage time before Beniston Barretto levelled the scores in the 50th minute. Verna dominated much of the second half, but Guardian Angel goalkeeper Mickey Dias produced a string of outstanding saves to keep his side in the contest and force the match into a penalty shoot-out.
In the tie-breaker, Guardian Angel held their nerve to prevail 9-8 and clinch the prestigious title.
The prizes were presented by chief guest Warren Alemao, social worker and youth leader, in the presence of ZP member Anthony Leo Fernandes, Benaulim Sarpanch Xavier Pereira, Orlim Sarpanch Simon Pereira, Varca Sarpanch Flavia Barretto, Carmona Sarpanch Sandra Fernandes, Colva Panch Pio Furtado, other panchayat members, Goa Football Association Vice-President Anthony Pango, GFA executive members and tournament officials.
Individual Awards
Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Johnson Bhogot (Maina SC)
Best Defender of the Tournament: Vicky Cardoso (Maina SC)
Best Midfielder of the Tournament: Blasco Fernandes (Ambelim SC)
Best Forward of the Tournament: Jesus Ferrao (USC Seraulim)
Promising Player of Benaulim: Maxwell Rodrigues
First Goal of the Final: Valentino Carvalho (Guardian Angel SC)
Final Awards
Best Goalkeeper: Mickey Dias (Guardian Angel SC)
Best Defender: Eusebio Fernandes (UC Verna)
Best Midfielder: Ivo Costa (Guardian Angel SC)
Best Forward: Beniston Barretto (UC Verna)
Last Touch of the Tournament: Eusebio Fernandes (UC Verna)
Man of the Final: Beniston Barretto (UC Verna)
Farewell Goal of the Final: Imson (Guardian Angel SC)
