Raia Sports Club Clinches Calangute Association Tournament Title in Thrilling Finale
Calangute : In a pulsating finale that had fans on the edge of their seats, Raia Sports Club triumphed over St. Sebastian Sports Club, Mapusa, clinching the Calangute Association Tournament title with a dramatic 5-4 victory in a tie-breaker, after the match ended in a goalless draw during regulation time.
The final, played amidst an electric atmosphere, showcased top-tier football as both teams fought fiercely for supremacy. The first half was marked by strategic play, strong defensive stands, and multiple goal-scoring opportunities that went begging. Both midfields clashed head-on, keeping the game evenly poised.
The intensity continued in the second half with both Raia and St. Sebastian pushing relentlessly for a breakthrough. However, goalkeepers on both ends stood firm, ensuring the match ended 0-0 and moved to the nerve-wracking tie-breaker. Raia Sports Club held their nerves better in the shootout, sealing a 5-4 win and lifting the coveted trophy.
The grand finale was graced by Chief Guest SP ANC Sunita Sawant, who commended the teams for their discipline, sportsmanship, and skillful play. Among the other notable attendees were local panch member Alex Coutinho, Sapnesh Vaigankar, and Paulo Mathias.
Individual Awards:
Man of the Match: Archie Fernandes (Raia Sports Club)
Best Player of the Tournament: Shaveez Pathan (St. Sebastian Mapusa)
Best Goalkeeper of the Finals: Manuel Viges (St. Sebastian Mapusa)
Best Defender: Danish (St. Sebastian Mapusa)
Best Forward: Lloyd Cardozo
Best Half of the Final: Velroy Borges (Raia Sports Club)
Best Goal Scorer: Velito Cruz (Raia Sports Club)
The winner’s trophy was presented to Raia Sports Club by SP Sunita Sawant, while the runners-up trophy was handed over to St. Sebastian Sports Club by Calangute Association President Padmakumar Nair.
The tournament was organized by the executive members of the Calangute Association, with valuable support from former Calangute footballers such as Bruno Coutinho, Alex Miranda, Anthony D’Souza, Domnic D’Souza, Eddie Fernandes, Agustin Rodrigues, Seby Noronha, Digamber Haldankar, Domnic Pereira, Marcelin Fernandes, and Alirio Lobo. Their presence brought a touch of nostalgia, underlining Calangute’s deep-rooted football legacy.
This victory stands as a testament to Raia Sports Club’s hard work, unity, and unwavering spirit. Congratulations to the champions on a well-deserved win!
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