Played at a lively pace, the hosts dominated proceedings and created several scoring opportunities. Jonathan, Royston Vaz and Dadapeer Patil all came close to finding the net, while the goalpost came to Nerul's rescue on multiple occasions, denying Ponda a deserved lead in the opening half.
Ponda's persistent pressure finally paid off after the break. Jonathan delivered a perfectly weighted diagonal pass to Dadapeer Patil at the edge of the penalty area, and the striker unleashed a superb first-time volley into the corner of the net to score what proved to be the match-winning goal.
Nerul fought hard to find an equaliser in the closing stages, but Ponda's defence remained resolute to preserve the slender advantage and secure a place in the final.
Dadapeer Patil was named Man of the Match for his decisive performance. The award was presented by Jovito Fernandes.
