Team. Goemkarponn
CANACONA: St. Anne’s Institute, Agonda etched their name in history by securing the Under-17 Girls State Championship after a gripping final against Asagaon Union High School at the Dramapur grounds on Monday.
The match opened with intensity as St. Anne’s took an early lead through Gwyneth Fernandes, setting the tone for a competitive encounter. The team maintained composure and control through the first half, displaying disciplined play and strong coordination.
After the break, Asagaon Union responded swiftly, equalising within minutes and shifting the momentum. Both sides continued to press for a winner, but despite several attempts, neither team could break the deadlock, ending regulation time at 1–1.
The championship was ultimately decided through a tense tie-breaker, where St. Anne’s Institute demonstrated remarkable calm under pressure. Gwyneth Fernandes, Alifa Fernandes, Ayushi Naik, and Aisha Naik Gaonkar converted their chances with precision, sealing a memorable victory for their team.
This triumph marks a significant milestone not just for the school but for the entire Canacona taluka. It is the first time a team from the region has claimed a state football championship, highlighting a shift in the sporting landscape of an area traditionally associated with games like Kabaddi and Kho-Kho.
The achievement has been widely celebrated as a proud moment for the community. The team’s success reflects dedication, teamwork, and the growing prominence of football in the region. School management and staff expressed immense pride in the players, acknowledging their hard work and determination throughout the tournament.
The victory stands as an inspiring chapter for young athletes in Canacona, signaling new possibilities and a promising future for football in the taluka.
