MARGAO
Benfica YC Vasco caused a major upset by defeating Social and Cultural Club Loutolim 2-1 in a tough encounter to advance to the quarterfinals of the Cavelossim Panchayat Cup Inter-Village Tournament.
The match, organised by Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim, was held at the Fr Druston and Wellington Ground in Cavelossim.
The first half saw Vasco’s youthful side dominate. In the 5th minute, a powerful shot from Erasmo Gama struck the crossbar but failed to cross the goal line. Loutolim defender Flager, in an attempt to clear the ball, miskicked it into his own goal, but alert goalkeeper Anch Naik managed to parry it to safety.
Vasco took the lead in the 18th minute when keeper Naik fouled Ryan Fernandes inside the 18-yard box, resulting in a penalty. Fernandes made no mistake, converting the spot-kick to give Vasco a 1-0 lead.
After the break, Loutolim pressed hard for an equaliser, but Vasco’s defenders, led by Hanson Cardozo, stood firm. The midfield, controlled by Royan Gama, continued to supply quality passes to the forwards. One such pass from Gama found Edson Gama, whose left-footed shot from the left flank found the back of the net, leaving keeper Naik with no chance and extending Vasco’s lead to 2-0.
Loutolim’s Shelford Fernandes reduced the deficit with a brilliant solo effort three minutes before the final whistle, making it 2-1, but Vasco held on to secure the win.
Frank Viegas, Sarpanch of Chinchinim, was the Chief Guest at the event and presented the Man of the Match award to Ryan Fernandes of Benfica Y.C. Vasco for his crucial contribution.
