MARGAO
Velroy Fernandes' goal in the 89 minute helped Pax of Nagoa Sports Club rescue a point against FC Goa in a 1-1 draw in the GFA Goa Professional League, at Nagoa Panchayat Sports Complex, on Friday.
The opening minutes saw the Gaurs making their intentions clear by mounting a series of early attacks. Defender Prateek and captain Lewan Costa from the flanks who made an inroad inside the rival penalty box got a deflection off Pax of Nagoa captain Joseph Clemente which eluded his goalkeeper in the in the fifth minute.
At the other end, Pax of Nagoa showcased attacking vigour. Nagoa persisted in their quest for the equaliser as they mounted tremendous pressure on the rival goalkeeper with their forwards launched barrage of attack but man of the match goalkeeper Micky Dias was in his elements and brought up superb saves. Pax of Nagoa came close in leveling the score but rival goalkeeper Micky Dias came to his side's rescue to deny Sherwin Abranches of a sure goal.
Both teams intensified their efforts in the final moments which created opportunities for both sides.
The second half witnessed a rejuvenated Nagoa side emerging with determined efforts to equalis the score. Jesloy Miranda's snap shot came agonizingly close but narrowly missing the target. Meanwhile, Velito D Cruz and Desmon Gama exhibited masterful midfield play, showcasing skillful footwork to bypass opponents and create opportunities for his teammates.
The game reached a dramatic climax in the 89th minute when Velroy Fernandes' dynamic run down the right flank secured the equaliser for Pax of Nagoa after lashing the ball into the net.
In the GFA's U-13 2nd Division league, at SAG Artifical Turf ground, Fatorda, Raia Football Club humbled Salcete Club 8-3.
Raia Football Club led 6-1 at half time. Raia dominated the game right from the word go and pushed their opponents on the back foot for major part of the game. Raia opened the flood gates in the third minute as Samuel Cruz who broke the deadlock. A minute later, Shawaiz Shaikh neutralised the lead. In the sixth minute, Samuel Cruz regained the lead and struck a second time Ram Chauhan in the seventh minute. Aaron Souza made it 5-1 in the 23rd minute .Meshwin Colaco found the net in the 37th minute.
Crossing over, Salcete Football Club Casroy Fernandes reduced the margin in the 41st minute. Unfazed, Raia FC went into attacking mode and Samuel Cruz register his hat-trick in the 48th minute. Casroy Fernandes struck for the second time for Salcete Club to complete his brace in injury time.
