GOA SIX-A-SIDE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

SUNDAY 19TH AUGUST 2007

The early morning rain and threatening clouds did not dampen the spirits of the fourteen teams that entered the GOA Six – a -side men’s football tournament. The teams came from all parts of London, some with unusual names like Mnazi Moja and Off the Boat All Stars to the more sedate ones like Waterfront F.C.

The teams were divided into two groups of seven and the first stage was a round robin league with the top four in each group advancing to the quarter finals.  Such was the competition, that it needed a three-way penalty shoot out between Goan Youth, Tolworth F.C and Lion F.C to decide the order of play in Group 2.  Tolworth eventually won the shoot out whilst  Football First cruised through as winners of  the other group.

The weather relented but the competition remained fierce on the field as the teams advanced to the semi final stage. In the first match, Football First edged out Real Siolim 1-0 in the dying minutes of the game, whilst Lions beat Tolworth by the same score.

The final was a tense match with both sides trying to gain the early advantage.  Football First struck first but Lions hit back almost immediately to level the scores. Lions roared back to steal the lead after the break, but once again Football First levelled to set up a tense last few minutes.  Tired legs and an error in defence led to Lions claiming victory by 3 –2 and lift the GOA Six – a – side trophy.

Flavio Gracias, President of the GOA thanked all the players, organisers and referees before presenting each finalist with their trophies.  Weather aside, a good day was had by all with most planning to come back next year. Darren Fernandes deserves a special mention for organising and co-ordinating the whole tournament.  Proceedings were brought to an end in the bar where a large crowd gathered for drinks and the talk was all about the one that nearly went in!!

Plino Martins

South East Goans

Southside G's

Goan Youth

Mnazi Moja (one coconut!!! in Swahili)