MARGAO
Cuncolim Union edged past Goa Velha Sports Club 1-0 in the finals of the All Goa Inter-village Seraulim Village Panchayat Cup football tournament organised by United Sports Club of Seraulim at SAG Ground, Seraulim.
Both teams started on a very cautious note with the ball mostly restricted to the midfield. The only opportunity that came the way of Cuncolim Union was in the 21st minute when Daulat Desai ran and trapped the ball. However, his weak shot was easily collected by the Goa Velha keeper.
After a goalless first half, both teams entered the field with renewed ideas and Cuncolim took charge in the attack. The Goa Velha defence though stood strong and even made some forward moves which, however, were not goal-threatening.
The spectators who were cheering their respective teams were expecting a goalless second half too and were preparing themselves to witness a tiebreaker. However, with seven minutes left for the final whistle, Austin Fernandes grabbed an opportunity and scored with a soft header, benefiting from a mix-up between Goa Velha keeper Pratik Kankonar and defender Kunal Kundaikar. The goal sealed the title for Cuncolim Union.
During the prize presentation, Sima Shanke, Sarpanch of Village Panchayat of Seraulim was the chief guest while Leslie Dourado was the guest of honour along with Parish Priest Rev Fr Benjamin Sacramafilla. Domingos Fernandes, Alina Pereira, Stephane Fernandes, Angela Dourado and Panchayat Panchas were special invitees. Fr Benjamin made a short speech and Policatpo, the president of the club, gave a vote of thanks.
Prizes: Best Striker - Daulat Desai (Cuncolim Union), Best Goalkeeper - Hrishikesh Gaonkar (Cuncolim Union), Man of the Match - Kunal Kundaikar (Goa Velha SC), Best Defender - Raghuvia Gaunkar.
