MARGAO
United Boys of Ambaulim clinched a narrow 1-0 victory over Sao Jose de Areal Sports Club in a gripping encounter of the ongoing Anil Kamat Memorial Tournament, organized by Enfermos Sports Club and held at the Chinchinim Church Ground.
The decisive moment of the match came early, as Joel Barreto found the net in just the 2nd minute, giving Ambaulim a crucial early lead. San Jose de Areal responded with intensity, pressing high and creating chances, but were repeatedly denied by resolute defending and standout goalkeeping.
In the 7th minute, Ashnoy Gomes had a golden opportunity to equalize but couldn’t convert. Moments later, Tyson Carvalho unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box, only to see it go off target. The pressure kept mounting on Ambaulim, with Bersal Viegas’ 17th-minute effort forcing a brilliant save from John Fernandes, the Ambaulim custodian.
Barreto came close to doubling his tally in the 20th minute, but Agio Antao, the San Jose de Areal goalkeeper, was up to the task with a sharp save. The first half ended with United Boys holding on to their slender 1-0 advantage.
The second half was marked by San Jose de Areal’s relentless pursuit of an equalizer. Bersal Viegas delivered a dangerous corner midway through, but John Fernandes once again came to his team’s rescue. In the 43rd minute, Fernandes made another crucial save, this time denying a well-placed strike from Ashnoy Gomes.
In the dying moments, United Boys of Ambaulim had a chance to seal the win through Alex Fernandes, but Agio Antao ensured the margin remained narrow with a solid stop.
Despite Sao Jose de Areal’s persistent efforts, the early goal proved decisive. United Boys of Ambaulim held firm to walk away with all three points, thanks in large part to their goalkeeper John Fernandes’ heroics.
Ashnoy Gomes of Sao Jose de Areal was named Man of the Match, in recognition of his attacking contributions and relentless effort throughout the game.
