MARGAO
Cortalim Villagers Sports & Social Welfare Association secured an impressive victory over Curtorim Gymkhana in a highly anticipated match of the GFA First Division League at Betalbatim ground, and the spectators were in for a treat.The match began with both teams starting strongly, but it was Cortalim Villagers Sports & Social Welfare Association who took the early initiative. They opened the scoring in the 8th minute when Preston Fernandes found the back of the net with a well-placed shot that left the Curtorim Gymkhana goalkeeper with no chance.
Cortalim Villagers kept up the pressure and soon doubled their lead. In the 21st minute, Amar Estibeiro scored an excellent goal that gave his team a comfortable 2-0 lead. The Curtorim players looked shell-shocked and were struggling to find their rhythm.
Cortalim Villagers continued to dominate the proceedings and added another goal just before halftime. Preston Fernandes scored his second goal of the game in the 44th minute, putting his team in a commanding position going into the second half.
The second half saw Curtorim Gymkhana trying to mount a comeback, but they were unable to break down the solid defence of Cortalim Villagers. The home team continued to press forward and created a few more scoring opportunities but were unable to convert them into goals.
In the end, Cortalim Villagers emerged as comfortable 3-0 winners. They played with confidence and discipline, and their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved victory. The Curtorim Gymkhana players will have to regroup and come up with a better performance if they are to compete in the rest of the league.
Nuvem SC, Mandopa settle for draw
MARGAO: In a thrilling encounter between Nuvem Sports Club and Mandopa Sporting Club, both teams fought hard to secure a win but had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Navelim ground.
The game started with both teams playing aggressively, trying to gain an early advantage. Nuvem created a few early chances but was unable to capitalise on them. Mandopa, on the other hand, was relying on counter-attacks and looked dangerous every time they moved forward.
In the 66th minute, Mandopa took the lead when Mackroy Pixoto scored a brilliant goal. The Nuvem defence was caught off guard, and Pixoto made no mistake in finding the back of the net.
Nuvem was not ready to give up just yet and continued to push forward, looking for an equaliser. They were finally able to level the score in the 79th minute when Selton Fernandes scored an impressive goal. Fernandes received a pass just outside the penalty area, took a few steps forward, and then struck the ball into the bottom corner of the net, leaving the Mandopa goalkeeper with no chance.
