MARGAO: Sao Jose de Areal stormed into the semifinals of the Navelim Villagers Union Trophy with a 2-0 victory over Navelim Villagers Union at Rosary Church ground, Navelim, on Wednesday.
In a closely contested encounter, Areal drew first blood through Josley Gomes, who beat the defence and goalkeeper to find the net in the 13th minute.
Navelim stepped up their efforts in search of an equaliser and earned a penalty after an Areal defender handled the ball inside the danger area. However, Sam Pereira failed to convert from the spot as Areal goalkeeper Cinton Travasso pulled off a fine save to preserve his team's 1-0 lead at half-time.
Both sides missed scoring opportunities after the break before Gomes struck again in the 49th minute to complete his brace and seal Areal's place in the last four.
Gomes was named Player of the Match and received the award from social worker George Barreto and club founder-member Jaywant Lotlikar.
The first semifinal will be played on Friday, November 6, between Guardian Angel and Fr Agnelo SCC Paroda.
