MAPUSA: Sporting Clube de Goa recorded their first win in the AIFF I-Legaue Third Division, following their narrow 1-0 victory over International FC at Jagran Lake City University ground, on Saturday.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by Lloyd Cardozo’s decisive penalty, the impactful return of Adil Khan, and the resilient goalkeeping heroics of Bhaskar.
The early minutes saw Sporting Clube dictating the pace, with Joyson Coutinho orchestrating attacks.
In the 22nd minute, Dattaraj Gaonkar showcased his skill by dribbling past rival players, attempting a shot that unfortunately hit the crossbar. The first half continued with missed chances for Sporting, including Lloyd Cardozo’s wide shot despite a brilliant through pass from Joyson Coutinho.
Despite several promising moves, the breakthrough remained elusive until the 45th minute. Kunal was brought down inside the box, earning Sporting Clube a penalty. Lloyd Cardozo stepped up with poise, burying the ball into the net and giving his team a crucial lead.
The second half witnessed continued pressure from Sporting Clube, with Marcus and Joyson Coutinho creating opportunities. In the 57th minute, Marcus's powerful shot was saved by the opponent's keeper.
Sporting Clube’s Samuel Costa also came close with a free-kick hitting the crossbar at the hour mark.
The final quarter witnessed a strategic move by Coach Armando Colaco, introducing former India international Adil Khan into the game to fortify the defence. Adil’s impact was immediate and profound.
His defensive prowess not only thwarted opposition attacks but also showcased versatility as he ventured forward, nearly doubling Sporting Clube’s lead with a skillful dribble and a powerful shot on goal, narrowly denied by the opposing custodian.
Goalkeeper Bhaskar Jalmi showcased his shot-stopping abilities in the 83rd minute, producing a breathtaking save to deny Jaspreet Singh in a one-on-one situation. The importance of such saves in securing the slender lead cannot be overstated.
In the dying moments of the game, Joyner, a stalwart in Sporting Clube’s line-up, exhibited unwavering commitment. His last-ditch effort to block an impending goal for International FC showcased not only his defensive acumen but also the team's collective determination to preserve the hard-earned lead.
At MVC Sports Complex, Vadodara, United Chirang Duar FC and Jaipur Elite FC were locked in a 1-1 draw. T Ajanta Rabha put his team United Chirang Duar ahead in the ten minute of play through a direct free kick, 1-0.
When it looked that United Chirang were all out for a win in the 92nd minute, Goan lad Umesh Pujari sent a long throw in at the rival goal, to find Martand Raina leap high above the rival defenders and nod the ball into the nets, 1-1.