Don Bosco, Malabar and DHL emerge victors: UG Trophy

Report: Joseph Gonsalves

Malabar

 Don Bosco

 DHL

Three quarter finals were played on January 4^th which saw Don Bosco, Malabar and DHL emerge as victors. Before the start of the first match a one minute silence was observed for Cyril Mucklar former UG member. The first match was between AVC and Don Bosco. Don Bosco started using the wings well in the beginning of the match but AVC defense did well to keep the ball out of the danger regions. AVC started to get back in the game and their first attempt saw a header sent inches away off the bar. Both teams began to increase the tempo and created good chances but both were unable to find the back of the net. Both the goal keepers were kept busy in the second half and both teams were guilty of missing great chances to take the lead. During the last five minutes, AVC fine effort was saved by a goal line clearance from the DBO last defender. The match ended in a tie after full time and extra time. Don Bosco had all of their penalty kicks on target but AVC missed one and it cost them the match. Godfrey from Don Bosco stood in as the keeper for the last spot kick and made a fine save to sent them through to the sem-finals where they will meet Malabar.

The second match of the day saw another close contest and a tie breaker was required.KGA and Malabar both winning by big margins last week were both matched equally in all departments.  KGA started well and had a good chance to score from a free kick at the start of the match.  No.10 Jose of KGA had only Shaijal the keeper to beat but he missed a golden opportunity. Shafi made a good run to give the lead to Malabar. In the second half KGA equalized froma  fine header from Agnelo Martin. Martin then increased the lead and made things difficult for Malabar. Malabar forward was fouled in the dee in the dying minutes of the second half. No.19 Sulfi made no mistake with his spot kick. The match ended 2-2 and the scores stayed levelled in extra time after fine perfomances from both the teams , but penalties was required to find a winner. A see saw of chances during the spot kicks and Malabar ended on the winning side.

The third match was between DHL and Goa Maroons. DHL moved the ball well on the pitch and were rewarded instantly when Seby found the Goa Maroons keeper Gomes off position. His long range effort gave the lead to DHL. DHL began to attack and dominate after their lead. In the second half Goa Maroons increased the pressure on DHL and created many good chances.  Joe’s free kick of Goa Maroons forced a diving save from the DHL keeper. But a mistake in the defense allowed Seby to double the lead for DHL. Goa Maroons won a penalty from a handball and Ian Dsouza took a cool penalty to get on the scoreboard. Goa Maroons tried their best to find the equalizer but time was not on their side. DHL will face Curtocares next week in the semi-finals.

UGC Fixtures for Semi-Finals Jan 11^th 2013

Don Bosco Vs. Malabar, 6:45am
DHL Vs. Curtocares, 8:15am