MARGAO
Navelim Sports Club held their nerve to edge past Betalbatim Sports Club, securing their place in the next round after a 2“1 victory in the Fr. Basilio Andrade Memorial Football Tournament at Musson ground, Majorda.
Navelim started brightly, full of intent and flair. Clinton Niasso announced his arrival in style, weaving through defenders before unleashing a powerful strike from distance that whistled just over the bar. But moments later, he made no mistake ” after dazzling a Betalbatim defender with a quick feint, Clinton fired an unstoppable shot into the top right corner, sending the Navelim supporters into raptures.
The momentum stayed with Navelim as Travis Souza nearly doubled their lead through sheer determination. Pressing high, he intercepted a misplaced pass but could only send his shot straight into the keeper’s waiting arms. The pressure was relentless ” Noah Luis cut inside from the left and tried to surprise the goalkeeper at the near post, forcing a desperate save that led to an abortive corner.
After being on the back foot for much of the first half, Betalbatim finally began to find their rhythm. A slick passing exchange saw Dickson Rogtas pick out Prosen’s clever run into the box, and with remarkable composure, Prosen squeezed the ball home from a tight angle to level the score. Their joy, however, was short-lived.
Barely moments after the restart, Navelim’s Travis Souza regained possession just outside the area and drilled a low shot past the outstretched keeper to restore his side’s advantage. The goal reignited Navelim’s energy, and they pushed for more ” Noah Luis once again darted down the flank, sending in a teasing low cross to Samuel D’Souza, who agonisingly dragged his shot wide.
In the closing stages, Betalbatim threw everything forward, with substitute Riyan Asampur making an immediate impact. His teasing cross caused chaos in the Navelim defence, and moments later, his deflected shot nearly found its way in, only for the Navelim goalkeeper to pull off a stunning diving save that preserved their lead.
Man of the Match honours went to Riyan Asampur of Betalbatim Sports Club, with his token of appreciation presented by Joe D’Costa.
