MARGAO
A second half strikes from Doyal Alves and first half goal from midfielder Vidipt Dua gave Sporting Clube de Goa a comprehensive 3-0 win over Geno FC in the GFA's Goa Professional League, at Nagoa Panchayat Sports Complex, on Wednesday.
In a highly anticipated clash between two teams expected to challenge for title, Sporting Clube de Goa and Geno FC battled for supremacy in the Pro League.
The Flaming Oranje entered the game setting the stage for a crucial showdown to determine their standings.
The game kicked-off with a bang as Sporting Clube de Goa wasted no time making an impact. In the 20th minute, Vidipt Dua showcased his goal-scoring prowess, breaking the deadlock with a clinical finish. A good transition of moves from defence to midfield led to Francisco Fernandes slipping the ball forward between rival defenders as Vidipt Dua headed home off well executed flag kick past the onrushing keeper to break the deadlock.
The momentum continued for Flaming Oranje in the second half, as they aimed to extend their lead and secure a decisive victory. After going close to scoring in the last couple of games, Doyal Alves scored a stunning strike off a free-kick to widen the goal margin in the 78th minute.
At the other end, Geno FC had few attempts at the rival goal but rival defenders stood tall in protecting the citadel intact. Doyal added another in the 82nd minute to secure the 3-0 victory.
FC Goa showcased their dominance at Ella ground, crushing Young Boys of Tonca, who remain winless at the bottom of the table with only two points from 11 games. The scoreline showcased FC Goa's offensive prowess: Shameek Vas (23'), Malsawmtluanga (53'), Gogocha (55'), and Bryson Pereira (77') each registered their names on the scoreboard.
At Duler Stadium, Calangute Association and Guardian Angel SC seemed destined for a draw after a lackluster 85 minutes. However, the game came alive in the final stretch. Pandurang Gauns broke the deadlock in the 87th minute, and Calangute pounced for two more goals in stoppage time through Pratesh Shirodkar and Aman Govekar. Calangute's Melwin Lobo was named the player of the match.
These exciting results add more drama to the Goa Pro League as the race for the top intensifies. Fans can expect more thrilling matches as the season progresses.
These wins ensure all three teams reach 20 points, with Calangute and FC Goa having played 12 matches and Sporting having played just 11. However, they remain three points behind league leaders Pax of Nagoa (23 points from 11 games).
