RAIA: Sao Jose de Areal SC triumphed over Guirdolim Club with a 4-3 victory, advancing to the semi-finals of the 2nd Fr Bruno Leitao Memorial Cup 2024, organised by the Union of Chinchinim Villagers, played at the Chinchinim Church ground, on Friday.
Areal opened the scoring in the first minute when Raymond Fernandes dribbled past Guirdolim's defenders and netted the first goal. Areal's forwards continued to pressure Guirdolim's defense, leading to a free kick just outside the penalty area. Raymond took the direct kick and scored, leaving the Guirdolim goalkeeper with no chance to save, making it 2-0 in the 26th minute.
In the 29th minute, the Guirdolim goalkeeper made a crucial save against Bersal Viegas's well-executed shot, keeping the score at 2-0 in favour of Sao Jose de Areal at halftime.
In the second half, Guirdolim regrouped and executed a more aggressive strategy. Moises D'Sa dribbled past Areal's defender and earned a penalty when he was brought down inside the box. Alreach Peixoto converted the penalty, reducing the deficit for Guirdolim Club. However, Areal quickly responded with two more goals from Bersal Viegas and Vanael Travasso in the 30th and 31st minutes, respectively, making it 4-1.
Guirdolim took advantage of Areal's defensive play and scored twice more, with goals from Akram Yadwad in the 44th minute and Mario Fernandes in the 54th minute. Despite their efforts, Guirdolim could not find an equaliser before the final whistle, and Sao Jose de Areal secured a 4-3 victory.
Raymond Fernandes of Sao Jose de Areal SC was awarded the player of the match given by Piedade Fernandes, Chinchinim-Deussua village panchayat panch member.