KERALA SNATCH GOA ROLLING TROPHY
Real Betalbatim go down fighting
In a pulsating final featuring end to end action, Kerala Challengers came back from a goal down to level with Real Betalbatim 1-1 and than snatch the prestigious GOA Rolling Trophy in the tie-breaker after extra time yielded no result in the finals of the 19th edition of the G.O.A Rolling Trophy organized by Goan Overseas Association (Goa Maroons) and played at the MOH Grounds in Shuwaikh on 8th March 2013 under the auspices of Kuwait Indian Football Federation.
Real Betalbatim playing their first final in a KIFF affiliated tournament matched Kerala Challengers in all respects in the first half and both goalkeepers on either side had to make important saves to keep the score goalless at interval. Denzil Jadhav, Real Betalbatim’s brilliant mid-fielder than conjured a goal out of nothing when he slotted home from an acute angle in a goalmouth melee to give his team the lead in the 10th minute of the second half much to the delight of the Betalbatim supporters. However as the match progressed, Kerala Challengers made their presence felt and a tiring Real Betalbatim defence led by the veteran Theodore Pinto were finally broken when Jineesh headed from a Rafeeq cross to equalize 1-1 with just 10 minutes to go. In the tie-breaker lottery, Kerala Challengers kept their cool scoring from all their kicks while Real Betalbatim missed one to break the hearts of their supporters. The match was ably handled by IFRA referee Francis Fernandes and he was assisted by Liston and Alvaro on the lines.
During the prize distribution ceremony which was graced by Charles D’Sa of Bassem International Company as chief guest, KIFF President and guest of honour Fidelis Fernandes appreciated the efforts of Goan Overseas Association and lauded them for organizing a successful tournament. Leo Fernandes gave away the gifts to referees while the fair play award was won by Kerala Challengers and given away by Rev. Fr. Rosario Oliveria the special invitee who is from the Bishop’s Palace in Goa and on a visit to Kuwait. In his brief address, Fr. Oliveria complimented the Indian Community in Kuwait for organizing tournaments of such calibre and was especially impressed with the fine sporting spirit and discipline shown by both finalists.
An appreciation service award was given to Clifford Fortes for his contribution to Goan Overseas Association since 1994 by Jaime Figueira on behalf of the Association, while Roland D’Sa and Ian D’souza gave away the runners up trophies to players and captain of Real Betalbatim. Mrs. Zinia Cardoso was on hand to give away the Man of the Match trophy which was deservedly won by Jeneesh V. of Kerala Challengers while the V. President of Goa Maroons, Tony Correia gave away the prestigious GOA Rolling Trophy to the captain of Kerala Challengers.
Earlier in the day, a festival tie-breaker tournament, the first of its kind was held for KIFF registered club officials and it was won by KIFF Managing Committee who defeated Indian Strikers in the final. Also an unique festival exhibition 9 a- side match between ‘The North’ captained by Carmo Santos and ‘The South’ captained by Salvador Dias was held just before the final and it was won by The North 4-0.
Earlier in the day before the final, a festival tie-breaker tournament first time in the history of Indian soccer in Kuwait was held for KIFF registered club officials. This tournament was organised by Kuwait Indian Football Federation and was won by KIFF Managing Commitee Members by defeating Indian Strikers in the final. KIFF President Fidelis Fernandes gave away the winners and runners up trophies.
Julio Cardoso
Kuwait
