MARGAO: Maina SC Curtorim made a winning start to their campaign, defeating Varca Sports Club 2-1 in the opening match of the 35th Super Soccer Tournament organised by United Boys of Dando Colva at the St. John the Baptist Panchayat Ground, Dando, Benaulim.
Maina SC dominated the first half, with Joywin Carneiro dictating play from midfield and creating several attacking opportunities. Their pressure finally paid off in the 27th minute when Milagres Fernandes found the back of the net to hand Maina a deserved 1-0 lead at the interval.
Varca Sports Club responded strongly after the break and restored parity in the 38th minute through Arron Barreto, who surged forward from defence to score the equaliser.
The setback did little to unsettle Maina, who quickly regained the initiative. Joywin Carneiro capped an impressive performance by netting the decisive goal to restore his side's advantage, while defender Rhay Dias marshalled the backline superbly to deny Varca any route back into the contest.
Rhay Dias was named Man of the Match for his outstanding defensive display. The award was presented by chief guest Anthony Leo Fernandes in the presence of guest of honour Fr. Jude Coelho, Assistant Parish Priest of Colva Church.
Earlier, Anthony Leo Fernandes, along with Fr. Jude Coelho, formally declared the 35th Super Soccer Tournament open.
