MARGAO
The 26th All-Goa Our Lady of Merces 8-a-side Football Tournament, hosted by Sirlim Sports Club, got off to a thrilling start as Arlem Youth Association edged out Goa Velha Sports Club 2-1 in the opening clash at the Chinchinim church ground.
The tournament was officially inaugurated by Chief Guest Fr. Victor Viegas, who kicked off the opening match in the presence of club officials, players, and a spirited crowd of football enthusiasts.
Arlem took the lead in the 16th minute when Archellis Fernandes calmly slotted home past the Goa Velha goalkeeper. The game remained closely contested until the 48th minute when Joyson Gauncar doubled Arlem’s advantage with a composed finish.
Goa Velha quickly responded, narrowing the deficit in the 51st minute through Sainath Kanconkar, who capitalized on a defensive error. They nearly found an equaliser late in the game, but Francis Alfonso squandered a golden opportunity from close range.
In the dying moments, Arlem goalkeeper Jake Madeira proved to be the difference-maker, producing a series of brilliant saves under pressure to preserve his team’s hard-fought victory.
