MARGAO
Sports Club Davorlim booked their place in the quarterfinals of the 53rd Custodio Memorial Inter-Village Football Tournament with a convincing 2-0 victory over neighbouring rivals Sao Jose de Areal at the Panchayat Ground, Raia, on Sunday.
Both teams started aggressively and created early chances. Davorlim's Paxtin Gomes came close to scoring in the second minute but failed to hit the target. Sao Jose de Areal responded swiftly, with Kaydon Faleiro narrowly missing the mark in the fifth minute after a promising attacking move.
The opening exchanges were fast-paced and entertaining before the contest settled into a midfield battle, with both sides striving to gain control. Areal threatened again in the 15th minute when Velky Barretto floated in a dangerous ball, but the opportunity went begging.
Davorlim emerged stronger after the break following tactical adjustments by coach Rosferns, who entrusted Ajay Raj with additional responsibilities in midfield and attack. The move paid rich dividends as Ajay Raj broke the deadlock in the 47th minute with a well-executed finish.
The influential midfielder doubled Davorlim's advantage in the 60th minute, completing his brace and putting his side firmly in control. Sao Jose de Areal tried to fight back, but a diving header from Bersel Viegas narrowly missed the target.
Ajay Raj was deservedly named Man of the Match for his match-winning performance. The award was presented by former Raia Sarpanch Peter Quadros.
