Betalbatim Sporting Club stormed into the final of the United Trophy football tournament with a narrow 1-0 victory over Rossman Cruz Nagoa in the semifinal played at the Rosary Church ground, Navelim, on Friday.
The match began cautiously, with both teams trying to settle down and gain control. Betalbatim came close through a corner taken by Joel D’Silva, but Ashley Fernandes’ header went wide. Rossman Cruz also had a chance before halftime when Clifton Rebello set up Ajay Satardekar, whose shot was punched away by Betalbatim goalkeeper Milton. The teams went into the break locked at 0-0.
After the restart, Betalbatim regrouped and finally broke the deadlock in the 37th minute through Riyam Asampur. Rossman Cruz tried to respond with a counterattack as Joasle Moniz delivered a cross into the box, but Nevil Menezes failed to convert.
Betalbatim could not extend their lead in the closing minutes, while Rossman Cruz were unable to find an equaliser before the final whistle.
Riyam Asampur of Betalbatim Sporting Club was awarded the Man of the Match by Michael Cardozo, former sarpanch and present panch of Navelim.
