MARGAO
San Jose de Areal booked their maiden spot in the final of the III Cavelossim Villagers UK Cup 2025 with a composed 2-0 victory over a spirited United Sports Club of Seraulim. The tournament is being organised by Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim and the semifinal was played at the Fr. Druston and Wellington Ground, Cavelossim.
Areal quickly adapted to the slippery conditions, opting for a long-ball approach that repeatedly tested the Seraulim defence. Early in the first half, David Colaco launched a long ball to Leo Gomendes, whose dangerous cross flashed across the goalmouth with no one to finish.
Seraulim stuck to their short-passing game, with Selvy Fernandes and Jairus Gomes showing creative intent. However, over-dribbling in the attacking third allowed Areal’s defence to recover time and again. Midfielder Sawant Lotlikar came close to breaking the deadlock with a long-range shot that narrowly missed the crossbar.
The teams went into half-time goalless, but the second half saw Areal take control, led by veteran Rayman Fernandes, who orchestrated play with precision and vision.
In the 50th minute, Rayman’s pinpoint corner kick found Ashnoy Gomes, who slotted home from a tight angle to give Areal a 1-0 lead. Minutes later, Keith Rodrigues made a brilliant goal-line clearance to deny Leo a certain goal.
Areal sealed the win in the 59th minute when Rayman’s curling corner kick struck the far post and deflected into the net, doubling their lead to 2-0 and ensuring their place in the final against Parish Youth Nuvem on June 1.
Clifford Soares of San Jose de Areal was named Man of the Match, with the award presented by Minguel Rodrigues, Executive Committee Member of Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim.
