Team Goemkarponn
Benaulim: St. Anthony’s SC Assolda booked their place in the semifinals of the 19th Super Soccer Inter-Village Football Tournament after a nail-biting 4-2 win over Varca SC in a penalty shootout at the St. John de Baptista ground, Benaulim. The tournament is organized by UC Benaulim.
The clash remained goalless during regulation time, but Assolda were the more dominant side throughout. Midfielders Moises D’Sa and Joaquim Carvalho controlled proceedings in the middle of the park, setting up several attacking plays. However, winger Richard Fernandes was guilty of missing two clear-cut chances, while Varca goalkeeper Mohammad Shaikh kept his team in the game with some outstanding saves.
After the break, Assolda continued to press forward. Richard and Sunny Fernandes both missed opportunities to put their side ahead. Varca’s midfielder Aaron Barreto almost pulled off a stunner with a long-range shot that narrowly missed the target.
With neither side able to break the deadlock, the match headed into penalties. Assolda held their nerve from the spot, converting through Moises D’Sa, Richard Fernandes, Sunny Fernandes, and Joseph Fernandes. Varca managed to score via Clayton Luis and Landan Mendonsa, but it wasn’t enough.
Joseph Fernandes was named Man of the Match for his composed performance and crucial penalty conversion. The award was presented by Anthony Leo Fernandes, member of the Goa Football Association’s Executive Committee.
Assolda now move on to the semifinals, keeping their hopes alive in the prestigious village tournament.
