MARGAO: United Boys of Ambaulim defeated Guardian Angel Sports Club, Curchorem, 2–0 to book a place in the semifinals of the Lourdes Soccer tournament organised by Ambelim Sports Club at the Ambelim ground on Saturday.
Both teams displayed an attractive brand of football in a closely contested first half. Ambaulim threatened early when Sowell went close in the 19th minute, but his effort sailed over the bar. Guardian Angel had a golden opportunity a minute later, with Regean missing a sitter that could have put his side ahead. At the stroke of halftime, Guardian Angel goalkeeper Allwyn came to the rescue with two fine saves to deny Joel Barretto, ensuring the teams went into the break scoreless.
After the change of ends, Ambaulim made their dominance count. Substitute Dailon broke the deadlock with a stunning long-range strike that dipped into the far corner of the net. Guardian Angel pushed hard in search of an equaliser, but Ambaulim’s resolute defence stood firm.
Ambaulim sealed the victory when Joel Barretto headed home a Sowell cross to make it 2–0 and put the result beyond doubt.
Manuel Silva presented the Man of the Match award to Joel Barretto of United Boys of Ambaulim.
