MARGAO: Navelim Villagers Union edged past UC Benaulim in the 33rd Super Soccer tournament organised in memory of Joao Xavier, at Dando Ground, Benaulim,.
Navelim's early lapse in concentration proved costly as Keegan Fernandes capitalised on a defensive error to put Benaulim in the lead in the seventh minute.
Navelim didn't take long to bounce back. They regrouped swiftly and took control of the midfield battle, with the trio of captain Arif, Nicholas, and Cedron putting up a strong resistance. Their dominance paid dividends in the 17th and 19th minutes, with Trevor Souza and Trevis Gomes finding the net respectively to turn the tables and head into halftime with a 2-1 lead.
The second half saw Navelim maintain their lead despite relentless attacks from Benaulim's Malappa and Velington. Benaulim's goalkeeper Tino emerged as a hero with a string of impressive saves, thwarting their attempts to equalise.
Aston Rodrigues from UC Benaulim was awarded the Man of the Match award by ex-international footballer Climax Lawrence.
