MARGAO
In an exciting final, Alila Diwa T Association defeated Zuri White Sands T Association 2-1 in the inter-hotel football tournament for the Late Fidelis Rodrigues Memorial Trophy organised by St Regis Taxi Association, Mobor, Cavelossim at Fr Druston and Wellington ground, Cavelossim.
Alila Diwa played attacking soccer with Andrew Tediso and Sheldon Fernandes combining well upfront. In the 15th minute, a cross from midfield by the best defender of the final, Roque Pereira, was well controlled by Andrew Tediso, whose powerful shot beat Zuri keeper Candido Furtado to draw first blood for Alila Diwa.
Crossing over, Zuri mounted concerted attacks using the flanks and succeeded in drawing parity when Yunal Fernandes headed in a superb cross by Wilfred Fernandes past Alila keeper Joseph D'Cruz.
When the match looked to be heading for extra time, a flag kick was awarded to Alila. Frankie D'Silva took a curling shot which was headed in from the narrowest of angles by Joseph D'Costa to seal the victory for Allila Diwa T Association, Majorda.
The winners pocketed Rs 15,000 and the winners trophy while the runners-up were awarded Rs 10,000 and a trophy.
Individual prizes: First goal of the final - Andrew Tediso, Best Defender - Roque Pereira, Best Keeper - Joseph D'Cruz, Best Player of the final - Yunal Fds.
Dixon Vaz, Sarpanch of VP Cavelossim, was the chief guest and gave away the winner's trophy and cash prize of Rs 15,000. Jesus D'Costa, Panch, VP Cavelossim, was the guest of honour. Viano Rodrigues, President, SCC Cavelossim, Panchas John Barreto, Swizel Barreto, Villagers Forum Secretary Prince Pereira, Sarita Rodrigues, daughter of late Fidelis Rodrigues, and Tiatrist Agustino Monteiro were the special invitees.
The tournament was well coordinated by James D'Costa, President of St Regis Taxi Association, Mobor, Cavelossim while Rui Jeorge, General Secretary, proposed a vote of thanks, and Francis Rodrigues compered the programme. The final was well attended.
