MARGAO
Harrison XI Cuncolim triumphed over Pedda Boys Ambelim 4-2 via tie-breaker in a thrilling final of the 1st Edition AVCC Open Invitational 9-A-Side Football Tournament, held in memory of Fr. Druston Correia, Macduf Monteiro, and Fr. Nevil Gracias, at Velim Church ground, on Monday.
The game started with both teams attacking aggressively. Harrison X1 had a close chance in the 10th minute when Bashlan Martin’s powerful shot narrowly missed the target. Ansh Patil’s header for Harrison and Jovel Silva’s attempt for Pedda Boys were also close but failed to find the net. As the match progressed, both teams struggled to break through robust defenses, leading to a tense stalemate.
In the tiebreaker, Rohan Gaunkar, Ansh Patil, Hagen Diniz, and Wayne Peres scored for Harrison X1, while Lester Fernandes and Crossly Luis found the mark for Pedda Boys. Harrison X1 received Rs 30,000 as winners, while Pedda Boys Ambelim had to settle for 20,000.
Fr. Santo Antonio Pereira, Parish Priest of St. Xavier Church Velim, was the chief guest and presented the prizes. The event was attended by Benjamin Silva, ex-President of Velim, Pradeep Chari, Manager of Lokmanya Co-op Credit Society, Menini Fernandes of Grace Event, Tony Fernandes, ex-Superintendent of Police, and other dignitaries.
Individual awards
Promising player: Glaton Fernandes (Santacruz SC Combiebhat)
Promising midfielder: Prasad (Mixed Boys Velim)
First scorer of the final: Rohan Gaunkar (Harrison XI)
Best defender of the final: Rohan Gaunkar (Harrison XI)
