PANAJI
Goa Police secured a commanding 3-0 win over Panjim Footballers SC in the GFA Goa Professional League, at Duler Stadium, Mapusa, on Tuesday.
The Cops broke the deadlock late in the first half. Francisco Fernandes' cross caused chaos in the six-yard box, deflecting off Panjim defender Darwin Carvalho and into the net. In the second half, Goa Police extended their lead as Mayuresh Naik headed in a perfect delivery from Suraj Hadkonkar, who later added a third with a composed finish inside the box.
Goa Police’s debut saw them take control early, with Ronaldo Oliveira leading the charge in attack, supported by Moises D’sa’s creative play in midfield. In contrast, Panjim SC struggled, hindered by the absence of a coach on the touchline, leaving their players disorganized.
Panjim SC nearly clawed back in the first half when Kavya Katkar's cross found Maresto Fernandes, but his hurried header flew just wide. Shaviz Khan came close again in the 57th minute, curling an effort off the woodwork. Goa Police had their own missed opportunities, with Ronaldo Oliveira striking the crossbar after Moises D’sa intercepted a poor clearance. Francisco Fernandes also had a golden chance denied by Panjim's goalkeeper Bhaskar Jalmi in a one-on-one situation.
Goa Police doubled their lead in the 76th minute when Naik connected with Handkonkar's inch-perfect cross. Handkonkar turned scorer five minutes later, finishing off a brilliant through ball from midfield to seal the victory.
