RAIA: Candolim Sports Club defeated Arlem Youth Association, 4-2, via the tie-breaker to advance to the quarterfinals of the 25th All-Goa Our Lady of Merces 8-a-side inter-village football tournament, organised by Sirlim Sports Club, at Chinchinim Church ground, on Friday.
Arlem Youth Association launched an aggressive attack from the start. In the 4th minute, Sweeden Gauncar’s right-footed shot hit the side post. Midway through the first half, Candolim Sports Club took control and repeatedly attacked the rival goal but couldn’t find the target. Joel Fernandes of Candolim narrowly missed a shot in the 23rd minute. Ashley of Candolim received a yellow card for a dangerous tackle.
The first half ended in a goalless draw.
In the 5th minute of the second half, Rajat Chopdekar scored, giving Candolim the lead. However, Achilles Fernandes equalised for Arlem in the next minute. A brilliant free kick from Sidney Gauncar put Arlem ahead, 2-1, but Candolim’s never-give-up attitude shone through. Aniket Naik levelled the score at 2-2 and three minutes later, he put Candolim in the lead, 3-2, with a powerful shot. Rajat Chopdekar then secured the win for Candolim with his second goal, making it 4-2.