Team Herald
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PANJIM: Gweneth Fernandes scored an incredible seven goals to lead Ambelim SC to a 7-1 win over UC Verna in the inaugural Khelo India U-15 Women’s football tournament played at Sinquetim ground, on Tuesday.
UC Verna started brightly, with Mohini Gavkar opening the scoring in the 16th minute. However, their lead was short-lived as Gweneth took control of the game, netting her first in the 26th minute and following up with another just a minute later.
The second half was a Gweneth masterclass, with the young striker adding five more goals to her tally. Her relentless assault on the UC Verna defence saw her find the back of the net in the 52nd, 57th, 71st, 74th, and 89th minute, capping off a truly remarkable individual performance.
“I am proud to present this new tournament promoting women’s football. Tuesday’s game is just a glimpse of the wonderful action to come. I am happy that girls have been engaging with football at such a high level, and the GFA will continue to support their hard work and talent through such tournaments,” stated GFA President Caitano Fernandes after the match.
"The Khelo India initiative, aimed at reviving sports culture in India at the grass-root level, has provided a platform for young athletes such as Gweneth to shine. With performances like this, the future of women's football in India looks incredibly bright," he added.
UC Verna will look to bounce back in their next fixture, while Ambelim SC aim to carry this momentum forward in what promises to be an exciting tournament.