By Salgaocar FC Media

GOA: Salgaocar Football Club U14 has been crowned Goa’s State champions in the GFA U14 finals held at Duler, Mapusa after they defeated FC Goa. Anutsh Moniz (7’), an own goal by Movin Gaunekar (12’), Valencio for FC Goa (35’) & Meldon Oliviera (42’) which lead to the penalties. FC Goa was able to convert just 1 of the 4 attempts in the tie-breaker while Movin, Rohit Naik & Jobern Cardoso converted from the spot to lead their team to victory.

The first half kicked-off with the Salgaocar lads in high gear. The Greens were able to mount pressure on their FC Goa counterparts early on through some great midfield plays as Antush & Kenneth Da Costa. Antush drew first blood for his side when he made a run through the middle & shot in the back of the net from just outside the box. After this, some uncertainty seemed to have set in the Greens defence as they gave their lead away by a silly error. Movin who was under pressure by a rushing FC Goa striker Ashwin in an attempt to clear the ball ended curling it past Meryton Fernandes into the goal. FC Goa seemed to receive a boost by this & made some very threatening attempts on target from their striker Ashwin & chances most of which were saved by Meryton or were cleared by Kyle D’Cruz. The Greens cracked under pressure just as it was time for the lemon break as FC Goa’s Valencio smartly dribbled past the Salgaocar defense to score making it 2-1 for his side.

In the second half, the Greens seemed to have pulled up their socks as it took them just 7 minutes to get the equaliser via Meldon. However, both teams were not able to able to get the ball into the back of the net despite having some really good chances. The game ended in a 2-2 deadlock which took it into a tie-breaker. FC Goa was able to convert just 1 of their attempts as Meryton saved 1 & the others were sent wide of the goal. On the other hand, Movin was handed a chance at redemption which he graciously converted, Rohit & Jobern scored the remaining goals to draw this exciting final to an end much to the excitement of the Green colts. With this Salgaocar FC U14 seal their bragging rights as Goa’s champions.