Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Dempo Sports Club secured a crucial 2-1 win over Panjim Footballers in a hard-fought Goa Professional League match played at the Dempo Sports Academy ground, Ella, Old Goa, on Sunday.
After a goalless first half, the Golden Eagles finally found their breakthrough in the 72nd minute when Shubham Rawat connected with Daniel’s pinpoint cross from the left flank, heading home to break the deadlock. Substitute Rohan Sharma extended the lead in the 82nd minute, capitalising on a rebound after Kapil Hoble’s initial effort was parried by the goalkeeper.
Panjim Footballers managed to pull one back in the stoppage time through Satish Kankonkar, who opportunistically converted after Prasil Kankonkar’s header created havoc in the box, but it proved to be merely a consolation.
Coach Samir Naik’s decision to shake up his starting lineup with five changes paid dividends, as Dempo SC dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the match.
Wellyster Mendes got the nod between the posts, while Saiesh Bagkar strengthened the defence. The midfield saw the introduction of Buam and Doungel, with Aaron Barreto spearheading the attack.
The Panjim side also made five changes to their lineup, with Vipin Sharma starting in goal and Tejbahadur Thapa marshalling the defence. Johann Mesquita controlled the midfield, while the attacking duo of Shaviz Khan and Kavya Katkar led the frontline.
Despite creating several opportunities in the first half, including a dangerous free-kick from Buam and multiple chances from set-pieces, Dempo SC couldn't find the breakthrough until Rawat's header midway through the second half. The Golden Eagles’ persistence finally paid off, securing all three points in front of their home crowd.