MARGAO
Betalbatim Sports Club get the better of Maina Sports Club 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure their place in the final of the Benaulim Villagers Cup, at St John the Baptist Dando Ground, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
On a picture-perfect day for football, both teams delivered an intense and thrilling contest filled with grit, flair, and several near misses.
Maina took the lead in the 11th minute when Joywin Carneiro rose above the defense to power home a thunderous header from a corner. However, Betalbatim responded quickly, with Keith Rodrigues capitalising on a defensive lapse just two minutes later, calmly lobbing the ball over the goalkeeper to level the score.
The second half featured end-to-end action, with Afilio Fernandes’ goal for Betalbatim ruled out for offside. Clifford Miranda and Dickson Rogtao impressed for Betalbatim, while Joywin Carneiro and Nikson Castanha were standout performers for Maina. Alison Rogtao was solid at the back for Betalbatim, helping keep their defense organized.
In the tense penalty shoot-out, Betalbatim’s goalkeeper rose to the occasion, making two crucial saves to secure a memorable victory and book their spot in the final.
