MARGAO
Ambelim SC edged out Verna SC 8-9 (1-1) after a marathon penalty shootout to move into the semifinals of the 24th Our Lady of Merces Football Tournament at Chinchinim Church ground.
Ambelim will now take on DBO Fatorda in the semifinals.
Ambelim's keeper Ozen Silva aimed his shots at the other end where his counterpart Royal Moniz was blinded by the setting sun. During one of Ozen's attempts, the ball eluded Royal and Ambelim's Samson Fernandes cushioned his header into the net, putting Ambelim ahead in the 28th minute.
After the change of ends, Verna threw everything into the attack but the equaliser eluded them. Finally, Clifton Rebello levelled from the spot to take the match into the shootout.
In the shootout, eight players from either side made attempts. Ambelim went through as keeper Ozen converted his try in the sudden death with Verna's Clifton failing in his attempt.
Velroy Fernandes (twice), Prinson Fernandes, (twice), Leister Fernandes, Asfin Pinto and Ozen Silva (twice) converted for Ambelim. Savio Pereira, Clifton Rebello, Fulgancio Cardozo, Noel Silva, Royal Moniz and Savio Pereira found the net for Verna.
