Staff Reporter
Ambelim
Fr Agnelo YSC Paroda were crowned champions of the Lourdes Soccer Cup after a 1-0 win over Maina SC at Ambelim ground, thanks to an early strike from Reagan Costa.
Costa’s 14th-minute goal proved decisive as Paroda edged past a resilient Maina SC in front of a packed stadium.
Maina SC came close to drawing first blood in the second minute, but Paroda’s goalkeeper Prakash Joshi pulled off a stunning full-length dive to deny Naresh Gaonkar’s well-placed effort.
At the other end, Benju Clement produced a crucial clearance just as Joysten Rebello found himself in a dangerous position inside the box. With both teams locked in a midfield battle, Paroda found the breakthrough when Reagan Costa weaved past the Maina defenders before calmly lifting the ball over the advancing keeper.
Maina SC pressed hard for an equalizer, but Paroda’s defensive duo of Leevan and Clement stood firm, snuffing out every attacking threat. Despite relentless pressure, Maina SC couldn’t find a way past the disciplined
backline.
The post-match ceremony saw Fr Clifford Cardoso, Fr Shawn D’Silva, and Fr Camilo Dias, alongside other dignitaries, present the prizes. Benjamin Silva delivered the vote of
thanks.
