MARGAO
United Club of Nerul staged a thrilling comeback to edge past Navelim Villagers Union 2-1 in an intense clash at the 26th Our Lady of Merces All-Goa 8-a-side Football Tournament, organized by Sirlim Sports Club and currently being held at the Chinchinim Church ground.
Navelim started strong, taking the lead in the 7th minute through a well-placed strike by Vellon Rebello, signaling their attacking intent early in the game. However, Nerul responded with determination, and in the 25th minute, Royce Gonsalves brought the scores level with a composed finish. Despite a flurry of chances on both ends, the teams went into the break locked at 1-1.
The second half saw Nerul step up the pressure. In the 50th minute, Marcus Fernandes capitalized on a quick counterattack to slot home what would eventually be the match-winner, leaving the Navelim defense scrambling.
Navelim pushed for an equalizer with Vellon Rebello and Ronaldo Pereira launching several threatening runs into the opposition half. But Kurpesh Bandodkar, Nerul’s goalkeeper, put on a stellar performance between the posts, pulling off a string of vital saves to preserve his team’s lead.
