Goa Pro League: Dempo SC edge past Panjim Footballers

Laxmianrao Rane scored the lone goal

Dempo Sports Club record second straight win with a 1-0 victory over Panjim Footballers in GFA Goa Professional League, Dulet Stadium, Mapusa. 

Laximanrao Rane scored the only goal of the game, in the first half, and was rightly named the player of the match.

The match kicked off with high intensity, and in the 16th minute, Dempo SC managed to break the deadlock. Arnold Oliveira showcased his brilliant dribbling skills as he eluded a couple of Panjim Footballers defenders and expertly squared the ball to the waiting Laximanrao Rane. Rane calmly slotted the ball past the opposition's goalkeeper, setting the scoreboard at 1-0 in favor of Dempo SC.

Panjim Footballers, however, were not ready to surrender without a fight. In a heart-stopping moment, they came agonizingly close to equalizing when a precise long ball from midfield found Nigel Fernandes. Fernandes lofted the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper, Myrick, only for Saiesh Bagkar to make a crucial clearance just in the nick of time.

Dempo SC continued to press forward relentlessly, aiming to extend their lead. Pratik embarked on a blazing run down the right flank and delivered a tantalizing ball across the face of the goal. Unfortunately, Laximanrao Rane, who had already proven his goal-scoring prowess, failed to capitalize on this golden opportunity. Minutes later, Necio Fernandes found himself in a similar promising position but was unable to convert Laximanrao's well-placed pass from the right flank. Dempo SC was undoubtedly dominant, yet their profligacy in front of goal left room for improvement.

As the game crossed over into the second half, Panjim Footballers were determined to stage a comeback. They were presented with a prime opportunity from a set piece, as Mackenzie Figueredo delivered a pinpoint corner kick. Prasil Kankonkar rose majestically for a header, but to the disappointment of the Panjim faithful, his effort sailed over the crossbar.

Panjim Footballers had their moments to level the scoreline, including a chance for Meislein inside the box. With only the goalkeeper to beat, the young player's shot veered wide, much to the dismay of the Panjim supporters. Shaviz Pathan also attempted a long-range shot, but it failed to trouble the composed Dempo SC goalkeeper. GFA Executive Committee member Anthony Vas presented the player of the match award to Dempo's Laximanrao Rane.