Team Herald
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RAIA: Hosts Curtorim Gymkhana edged past Betalbatim Sporting Club 2-1 in a hard-fought match to book a place in the semi-finals of 32nd Curtorim Panchayat Cup organised by Curtorim Gymkhana, at St Alex Church ground, Curtorim, on Monday.
Curtorim Gymkhana surged ahead in the very second minute with Nezly Hilario tapping in a long-ranger cross by Gilbert Fernandes. Curtorim Gymkhana could have doubled their lead but Anslem Fernandes’ shot went wide.
Curtorim Gymkhana were leading 1-0 at the half time. In the second half, Betalbatim Sporting Club started attacking from both the flanks as Sarvan Ronaldo and Keith missed some easy sitters.
Didymus Antao of Betalbatim Sporting Club equalised in the 40th minute off a through ball by Keith Vaz.
As the match proceeded, Curtorim Gymkhanas finally found the winner in the 50th minute through midfielder Elton Mascarenhas, who released a left footer shot which was neatly placed in the left bottom corner leaving the Betalbatim SC keeper clueless.
Betalbatim Sporting Club then tried hard to find the much-needed equaliser as Dylan’s shot was beautifully saved by Johnson Bhogot.
Johnson of Curtorim Gymkhana was awarded the man-of-the-match by chief guest Esigna de Souza, panch of Village Panchayat Curtorim in the presence of Santan Mascarenhas, internal auditor of Curtorim Gymkhana.
Curtorim Gymkhana will now meet Fr Agnelo Youth Sports Club, Paroda, in the semi-final clash on October 11.