The United Boys of Ambaulim pose for a photograph with the Anil Kamat Memorial Trophy.
MARGAO
United Boys of Ambaulim emerged as champions of the Anil Kamat Memorial Tournament, defeating Navelim Sporting Club 5-4 via tie-breaker after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The final began with an early strike from Navelim’s Ronaldo Pereira in the 2nd minute. Ambaulim nearly responded in the 4th, but Julius Carvalho’s shot went narrowly wide following a pass from Alex Fernandes. The momentum swung evenly, with both teams creating chances. Navelim missed opportunities to extend their lead, with Ronaldo Pereira, Prestly Gomes, and Joyson Coutinho off target, while Ambaulim also pressed forward with efforts from Jesvan and Alex Fernandes.
At halftime, Navelim led 1-0. In the second half, Ambaulim intensified their attack. A crucial save by goalkeeper Ibon Fernandes kept them in the game. Finally, in the 57th minute, Jesvan Fernandes found the net, leveling the score 1-1.
Despite late efforts from both sides, neither team could break the deadlock, leading to a tense tie-breaker. Ambaulim scored through Sowell Fernandes, Bradley Carvalho, Savlon Fernandes, and Jesvan Fernandes. Navelim replied with successful conversions by Venito Costa, Joyson Coutinho, and Aden Pereira.
United Boys of Ambaulim lifted the trophy after a display of grit, teamwork, and composure under pressure.Match Awards: First Goal of the Match: Ronaldo Pereira (Navelim SC); Best Half of the Match: Savlon Fernandes (United Boys of Ambaulim); Best Forward: Myron Gomes (Navelim SC); Best Defender: Jesvan Fernandes (United Boys of Ambaulim); Best Goalkeeper: Ibon Fernandes (United Boys of Ambaulim).
United Boys of Ambaulim received a cash prize of Rs 60,000, while Navelim Sporting Club had to settle for Rs 40,000.
Dronacharya Awardee Armando Colaco was the chief guest. Avertano Furtado (ex-Fisheries Minister), Fr Alex D’Souza (Parish Priest of Our Lady of Hope), and Fr Eremito Coutinho were guests of honour. Diksha Vashisht (Trade Marketing Manager), Frank Viegas (Sarpanch of VP Chinchinim), and Somnath Kamat presided over the function. Alberto Colaco (former General Secretary of AIFF) and Schubert Furtado (Treasurer of GFA) were also present.
