MARGAO
Goa Velha SC emerged victorious over United Club Benaulim 5-3 via penalties to book their spot in the semifinals of the Cana Benaulim Panchayat cup inter village football tournament, at St John de Baptista football ground, on Tuesday.
Despite an aggressive start from Benaulim, Goa Velha's goalkeeper Pratik Kankonar stood firm with a crucial save in the sixth minute to deny Joseburn Cardozo. Benaulim's persistence paid off in the 13th minute when Nicholas Rodrigues' misjudged cross found Keegan Fernandes, who headed the ball into the net.
In the second hald, Goa Velha equalised in the 38th minute through Alme Fernandes, who nodded in a low cross from Akash Sanadi. Benaulim's efforts to retake the lead were thwarted by an ineffective striking duo of Enosh Goes and Cedran Rodrigues.
In the tie-breaker, Goa Velha SC emerged victorious with Sainath Kankonkar, Akash Sanadi, Rishabh Madkaikar, and Francis Afonso converting their spot-kicks whileonly Nicholas Rodrigues and Alejo Fernandes were successful from the penalty spot for UC Benaulim.
UC Benaulim's Tino Fernandes was awarded the man of the match award.
