MARGAO
Ilhas SAI Veterans were crowned champions of the inaugural All Goa Late Alvernaz & Lalush Memorial Veterans Football Tournament after defeating Quepem Veterans 4-0 in the final at the Varca SC ground on Friday.
The tournament was organised by the Youth of Fatrade.
Alexander Fernandes and Ivon Coutinho were among the standout performers, entertaining the crowd with their powerful shots and precise passing.
Ilhas SAI Veterans took the lead in the seventh minute through Benidict Fernandes. Alexander Fernandes then doubled the advantage in the 20th minute to give Ilhas a comfortable 2-0 lead at half-time.
Quepem Veterans struggled to find a way back despite opportunities, with Robin Pinheiro missing chances to reduce the deficit.
Nevile Araujo extended Ilhas SAI Veterans' lead in the 48th minute before Alexander Fernandes completed the scoring two minutes later to seal a convincing 4-0 victory.
Alexander Fernandes was named Best Striker, while Rosario Carvalho of Quepem Veterans won the Best Midfielder award. Pascoal of Quepem was adjudged Best Defender, and Russel Moniz of Ilhas SAI Veterans was named Best Goalkeeper. Ramesh Palkar of Ilhas SAI Veterans was declared Man of the Match.
Warren Alemao, Youth Leader and social worker from the Benaulim constituency, was the chief guest and presented the prizes to the winners and runners-up. He was accompanied by Crosly Charlton Lourenco, Deputy Sarpanch of Varca, panch members Jimmy Rebelo and Jennyson Rosa, along with other dignitaries and club officials.
