Team Goemkarponn
Benaulim: Sporting Club Davorlim were crowned champions of the Cana Benaulim Panchayat Cup after a dramatic 7-6 victory over Guardian Angel SC in a tense penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The rain-soaked final, held at the packed St John the Baptist Panchayat ground in Benaulim, drew a massive holiday crowd, all swept up in the football fever and treated to a match filled with intensity and heart.
Davorlim started strong, taking early control of the game with their aggressive pressing and crisp passing. Their dominance was rewarded in the 22nd minute when Alent Colaco found the back of the net with a clinical finish, giving his team a well-earned 1-0 lead at the break. However, Guardian Angel SC, known for their fighting spirit, came out in the second half with renewed energy. Their attacking persistence eventually paid off when Cyril Dias calmly converted a penalty to level the scores at 1-1, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
As neither side could break the deadlock in regulation time, the match moved into a high-pressure penalty shootout. SC Davorlim kept their composure, converting their spot-kicks with precision to emerge 7-6 winners and lift the prestigious trophy.
The final was followed by a grand prize distribution ceremony attended by several dignitaries, including Fr. Nicholas from the Delhi Archdiocese, Fr. Johnsie Colaco, Benaulim Sarpanch Xavier Pereira, GFA Vice President Anthony Pango, and GFA Executive Member Anthony Leo Fernandes, along with other club officials and guests.
Alent Colaco of Davorlim was named both First Scorer and Best Midfielder, while Guardian Angel SC’s Jayson Dias received the Best Striker award. Francisco Colaco of Davorlim was awarded Best Goalkeeper, and Kayden Rodrigues of St Sebastian Union was recognized as the Upcoming Player of Benaulim. The vote of thanks was delivered by David Fernandes, President of St Sebastian Union Club, bringing the curtain down on a final that captured the spirit and passion of Goan football.
