G.O.A ROLLING TROPHY

Match day 4

DHL FC and Navelim YC to clash in Quarters

In an exciting second round clash Navelim Youth Centre had to use all their experience and skills to edge out Malabar United FC 2-1, and DHL FC trashed Santos FC 4-1 in an one sided first round clash in the 18^th edition of the G.O.A Rolling trophy organized by Goan Overseas Association (Goa Maroons) and sponsored by Bassem International Trading Company at the MOH Ground, Shuwaikh.

Navelim Y.C winner 2-1

Fans who turned up in large numbers to witness the grand clash between title aspirants Malabar United FC and Navelim YC were not disappointed with the match starting in spectacular fashion right from the first minute when Arif playing his first match for Navelim YC had a dream debut scoring in the 46^th second from inside the penalty area. The goal came as a shock for Malabar United who were just settling in and motivated them to attack the Navelim goal in large numbers and the hard work put in by Ismael, Ashwad Ali and others finally paid when Muhammed Malayil scored from close range before the end of the first half to get their team on level terms.

Malabar United FC lost in a close match

DHL FC won 4-1

Santos FC lost to DHL FC

The second half was dominated by Malabar United FC with some fine passing but at the same time some robust tackling, and referee Derrick Gomendes had no hesitation in issuing as many as four cautions to the Malabar players to keep the match from getting out of hand. It was however against the run of play that Cruz who has been a thorn in the sides of many a teams’ showed just why he is so highly rated when he put Navelim into the lead with a beautiful goal from close range.

Malabar United FC tried their best to get the equalizer, and almost came close to taking the match to extra time only to find a fine effort by their forward disallowed for offside.

Earlier, DHL FC who have shown great potential this season, easily defeated Santos F.C with goals from Terence D’Souza, Anthony Vincent, Ishfaq Ismail and Binoj. Santos FC got a consolation goal when Romeo Fernandes was brought down in the box, and in the ensuing penalty, young Cheslee D’Souza made no mistake in converting for Santos F.C. Philip Coutinho under the Santos Bar had to make as many as three excellent saves to keep his team from losing with a larger margin.

Coming Friday, AVC Sports & CA take on United Friends Club at 6:30am, Goa Maroons who received a bye, being last year’s champions play FC Spark at 8:00am and real Betalbatim FC will play Skynet Raiders in the last match at 9:30am. The tournament is played under the auspices of KIFF.

Report by: Julio Cardoso - Kuwait

:This report is also published in Arab Times of today's date - Page 50 - Sports column]

www.arabtimesonline.com