In the semi-finals played at Government School play grounds-Cuncolim, Ambelim Sports Club were undone 2-3 after Placidino Fernandes headed home the winner in the 62nd minute for Curtorim Gymkhana to break the 2-2 deadlock which prevailed at half time
The Goan Network
MARGAO
A double strike by Melvin Fernandes enabled Curtorim Gymkhana edge past Ambelim Sports Club 3-2 to storm into the final of All Goa 7th Cuncolim Union Rolling Trophy inter village football tournament organized by Cuncolim Union at Government School play grounds, Cuncolim on Saturday.Both the teams were tied 2-2 at half time.
Both the teams showed better co-ordination, especially in the opening session and there were plenty of thrills at either end. Curtorim Gymkhana picked up the pace and stitched together neat passing bouts, ensuring they maintained ball possesion at all cost.
Curtorim broke the deadlock in the very 8th minute when striker Melvin Fernandes slotted past the goalkeeper with a snap shot off a pass from Agnelo Martins. Stung by the early reversal, Ambelim regrouped quickly and took the fight to the rival camp. In the 12th minute Richard Fernandes' well-executed free kick eluded both the human wall and goalkeeper Christo Hilario. Stunned by the equaliser, Curtorim Gymkhana went into attacking mode and six minutes later, Melvin Fernandes headed home off a flag kick taken by Seby Martins.
Down by 1-2, Ambelim Sports Club went all out in search of the equaliser and in the 25th minute, Nial Cardozo punished the rival goalkeeper with a clinical finish off a pass from Jaison Cardozo.
Post resumption, Curtorim put up an improved display and tormented the rival defence with sporadic raids. They had a couple of scoring chances but their forwards misfired from hand-shaking distance. At the other hand,Cuncolim Union had a couple of scoring opportunities but their forwards Nial Cardozo, Samson Simoes and Blasco muffed gilt-edged chances.
Curtorim's match winner came in the 62nd minute when Placidino Fernandes headed home off a floater from Melvin Fernandes. Ambelim tried their best to claw their way back but failed to get past the rival's strong defence.
Curtorim will now meet Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda in the final slated on Februay 2 on the ocassion of feast of Our Lady of Health.
Today's Action
Curtorim Friendship Cup (final): American Boys, Panchawadi v Sarzora Boys, DYSA grounds, Curtrorim, 4.30 pm.
