MARGAO: Xetrapal Sports Club, Siolim defeated Navelim Villagers Union 3-1 to enter the semifinals of the 15th Fatima Cup, organised by Dicarpale Sports Club at its ground on Saturday.
The two sides produced an entertaining end-to-end contest, keeping the crowd engaged throughout. Xetrapal took the lead before half-time when a player was brought down inside the box, prompting referee Mario Rebello to award a penalty. Lavnay Shirodkar made no mistake from the spot to give Xetrapal a 1-0 lead at the break.
Navelim Villagers created several chances after the restart through Sam, Travis and Nash Pereira, but could not find the equaliser.
Xetrapal then doubled their advantage on a counter-attack through Mantan. As the match entered its final quarter, Vipul Pednekar made it 3-0.
Navelim Villagers pulled one back through Aden Pereira before the final whistle, but Xetrapal held on to seal their place in the semifinals.
Pednekar was named Player of the Match and received the award from Tyson Colaco.
