MARGAO
USC Seraulim Veterans emerged champions of the Benaulim Constituency Veterans Trophy, defeating Varca Veterans 2–1 in a thrilling final held at the SAG Grounds, Benaulim, on Sunday.
Seraulim got off to a strong start, with Sohan D’Costa and Milton D’Cruz combining effectively to put pressure on the Varca defense. Their efforts bore fruit in the 10th minute when midfielder Steven D’Sousa latched onto a fine pass from Vinod and fired a right-footer into the net, giving Seraulim a deserved early lead.
Varca Veterans responded with determination. Striker Elvis Fernandes and Romeo Vaz came close to equalizing, creating panic in the Seraulim defense. Their persistence paid off just before half-time when left-back Francisco Carvalho collected a pass from Elvis and powered it past Seraulim goalkeeper Kennedy Noronha, leveling the score at 1–1.
The second half saw both teams relentlessly attack in search of the winner. Kennedy pulled off a crucial save to deny Appollo Pereira, while at the other end, Sohan D’Costa saw his attempt rattle the upright.
As the match approached its conclusion, a pivotal moment arrived when the referee awarded Seraulim a penalty for a handball by Francisco. Sandeep Shanke calmly converted from the spot, sealing a memorable 2–1 victory for USC Seraulim Veterans.
Sandeep Shanke was named Man of the Match for his winning goal.
In the earlier girls’ exhibition match, Sesa Football Academy dominated UC Benaulim Girls with a commanding 4–0 win. Goals were scored by Sashmita Jadhav, Donnea Fernandes, Arpita Pednekar, and Floni Costa. International star Sashmita Jadhav was adjudged Player of the Match for her stellar performance.
Chief Guest and Benaulim MLA Capt. Venzy Viegas presented the winners’ cash prize of ₹25,000 and the Rolling Trophy to USC Seraulim Veterans. The runners-up trophy and ₹20,000 cash prize were awarded to Varca Veterans. The ceremony was also attended by Benaulim ZP Joseph Pimenta, Seraulim Sarpanch Seema Shanke, Anthony Leo Mam, Boaventura Leitao, Doma Fernandes, Caitano Fernandes, Charles Fernandes, Severino Fernandes, Poly D’Cruz, and B. Matos.
