MARGAO
Hosts Ponda Footballers emerged champions of the 36th All Goa St Anne's Festival Inter-Village Soccer Tournament 2026, played in memory of late Dr Ketan Bhatikar, with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Raia Sporting Club at the Animal Husbandry Ground, Curti, on Sunday.
Supported by the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) and powered by the Madhavrao Dhavlikar Charitable Trust, the final was played at a brisk pace, with both teams creating chances. Ponda goalkeeper Pearson produced a string of fine saves to keep Raia at bay before the hosts found the decisive breakthrough.
The winning goal came when Myron launched a long throw into the box and Dadaphir Patil fired home the match-winner, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.
Before kick-off, players and officials observed a minute's silence in memory of late Dr Ketan Bhatikar.
At the prize distribution, Sudin Dhavlikar presented the individual awards. Pearson of Ponda Footballers was named Best Goalkeeper, Joswan Cardozo of Raia Sporting Club received the Best Defender award, Myron of Ponda was adjudged Best Midfielder, Sweden Barbosa of Raia won the Best Forward award, while Dadaphir Patil was declared Man of the Final.
Among those present on the dais were Fr Francis Rosario, parish priest; Dr Kautuk Bhatikar; Dr Rama Parab, Assistant Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services; former ZP member Priya Chari; Custodio Dias, attorney of the church; GFA members Uday Lingudkar and Cosme Oliveira; and Francisco Fernandes, Xavier Fernandes, Josieto Cabral and Annie Mendes.
Earlier, in the exhibition match, Guirdolim Champions South defeated Grand Masters South 5-4 in a penalty shootout after the teams were locked 1-1 at the end of regulation time.
