MARGAO
Sao Jose de Areal edged past Parish Youth Nuvem 4“2 via a tie-breaker to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the 19th All Goa Guirdolim Panchayat Cup, organised by Guirdolim Club at the Chandor Church Sports Complex.
Areal began the match on the front foot, applying early pressure on the Nuvem defence. In the 5th minute, an ambitious long-range attempt from Bersal Viegas was pushed away for a corner by the Nuvem goalkeeper. Parish Youth Nuvem’s Shenoy Colaco was lively in attack, creating chances but failing to find the target. Both teams exchanged attacking moves, but strong defensive displays at either end kept the first half goalless.
After the restart, Nuvem intensified their search for a goal. Areal defender Bersal continued to stand firm, blocking a clear attempt from Shenoy with a brave challenge. In the 33rd minute, Aryan of Areal was booked for a reckless tackle just outside the box, and Shenoy’s resulting free kick missed by a narrow margin. Moments later, Nuvem earned a short corner, with the ball falling to Shenoy, whose fierce volley brushed the crossbar on its way out. Bersal again came to Areal’s rescue with a crucial last-ditch tackle.
Areal had their own golden chance in the 50th minute when Jeston, with a clear look at goal, struck a weak shot straight at the Nuvem keeper. Both teams continued to push forward, but resolute defending ensured the match ended 0“0 in regulation time.
In the ensuing shootout, Areal converted all four of their penalties, while Parish Youth Nuvem managed to score only two, with the remaining attempts going wide.
Bersal Viegas of Sao Jose de Areal was named Player of the Match and received his award from Suraj Zambodkar, Joint Chairman of the Organising Committee.
