Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Bhati Lobo Lions emerged champions of the Parra Panchayat Cup after defeating B Aradi Gama United 2-0 in the final played at the Parra ground on Sunday.
After a tightly contested first half, Bhati Lobo Lions stepped up their attack in the second session to seal a comfortable victory. Shuban opened the scoring after receiving a precise through pass from Daniel Lobo before calmly placing the ball into the far corner of the net. Soon after, Billu doubled the lead with a powerful ground strike that beat the rival goalkeeper and effectively put the result beyond doubt.
B Aradi Gama United created a few promising chances in the opening half, but goalkeeper Manthan stood firm under pressure. He produced impressive saves to deny a header from Zuben and a strong strike from Morgan, keeping the scores level before the break.
Bhati Lobo Lions nearly added a third goal towards the end of the match when Daniel Lobo rose high to meet a cross from Diwakar, but his powerful header crashed against the far post.
With the victory, Bhati Lobo Lions received the winners’ trophy along with a cash prize of Rs 30,000, while runners up B Aradi Gama United were awarded Rs 20,000 and a trophy.
During the closing ceremony, former footballers from Parra were felicitated by Michael Lobo in the presence of Village Panchayat members and organising committee officials.
Fondac Aradi secured the third place trophy, while Britto Warriors finished fourth and also received the Best Discipline Team award.
Several individual prizes were presented after the final. Zuben Quiterio D’Souza of B Aradi Gama United was named Emerging Player of Parra, while Joston Cardoz won the Highest Goal Scorer award. Oliver of Bhati Lobo Lions was adjudged Best Defender and Clifford D’Silva of B Aradi Gama United received the Best Midfielder award. Manthan of Bhati Lobo Lions was named Best Goalkeeper, Morgan of B Aradi won Best Striker, Ashmeet received the Man of the Match award and Shuban claimed the prestigious Golden Ball honour.
