Sports

Maina SC Cruise Past Verna with 3-0 Win in Benaulim Villagers Cup Clash


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Benaulim, Goa – Maina Sports Club put on a commanding display to beat United Club of Verna 3-0 at the St John the Baptist ground, advancing confidently to the next round of the Benaulim Villagers Cup on Thursday.

The game kicked off with Maina SC immediately setting the pace. In just the 8th minute, Frazer Fernandes opened the scoring with a cool finish, giving Maina the early lead and establishing their control over the match.

Verna attempted to find rhythm in the second half, but Maina’s defensive unit held strong. Goalkeeper Prakash Joshi was particularly impressive, producing a string of key saves to deny Verna any momentum.

Maina doubled their lead through Jovel Martins in the 32nd minute, who slotted home the second goal with composure before halftime. Despite Verna’s efforts to respond, including some fine saves by their keeper Samuel Miranda, they struggled to keep up with Maina’s attacking fluidity.

Joywin Carneiro added speed and flair throughout the game, stretching the Verna defense repeatedly with his pace and movement.

In the closing stages of the match, it was Frazer Fernandes again who sealed the result, scoring his second goal of the night and securing a comprehensive 3-0 victory for Maina SC.

With this performance, Maina SC has made a strong statement in the tournament, blending solid defense with sharp attacking play. All eyes will be on them as they prepare for the next round.

Sports

Calangute Association Storm Into Vedanta Trophy Final With Commanding Win


Sinquerim, Goa – July 1, 2025 : Calangute Association Football Club has marched confidently into the final of the 1st Vedanta Trophy, registering a solid 2-0 victory over their opponents at the Sinquerim Sports Club ground on Monday.

The game saw Calangute dominate in both possession and chances created. Rising star Jovito Fernandes opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, converting an early opportunity that gave Calangute a 1-0 advantage going into the break.

After halftime, the pressure didn’t ease. Former Goa state player Pedro Gonsalves doubled the lead in the 53rd minute, calmly finishing past the goalkeeper to all but seal Calangute’s place in the final.

The match, however, wasn’t without its physical moments. Referee decisions led to yellow cards being issued to Pratik Tirodkar, Gauresh, and Aiyan Shaikh for fouls committed during intense play.

Pedro Gonsalves was later named Man of the Match for his composed midfield performance and decisive goal. The award was presented by Franklin Roncon, a representative from the Goa Football Development Council (GFDC).

Calangute Association’s disciplined defense and clinical finishing proved too much for their opponents, and they now head into the final as firm contenders for the inaugural Vedanta Trophy title.