Kerala’s Malabar United Emerge Champions

Kerala’s Malabar United FC emerged champions of Navelim Villagers Trophy 7-aside football tournament beating Goan outfit St. Anthony, Siolim by a solitary goal in the final.

Malabar’s Younes scored the all-important goal in the second session, he was later adjudged man of the match for his outstanding overall display. Roshan and Godfrey were excellent for St. Anthony while youngster Allwyn was a shining star for the runners-up.

Malabar played a dominant game all throughout. It was a joy to see their jubilant players receiving the trophy. Malabar President Haridasan Kancheri and Team Manager Ibrahim were ecstatic about the victory which was their second within a week; Malabar were crowned champions of Santos United 7-aside Trophy a week earlier.

Earlier in the semi-finals, Malabar United beat another Kerala team Indian Strikers by 3-0, while St. Anthony overcame Curtorcares via the tie-breaker.

The tournament was organized by Navelim Villagers in association with Navelim YC. It was co-sponsored by Palms Agro Production Co., American Tourister/Morad Y. Behbehani Group, Kuwait Construction Systems/BASF, Mr. B. M. Viegas (KIFF President) and Mr. Fidelis Fernandes (Ex-President of KIFF). Others who supported the tournament included NYC President Norman Noronha, Royston Fernandes, Bernard Fernandes, Nicholas Rodrigues, etc.

Mr. Rubin Fernandes, ex-player of Navelim on a visit to Kuwait, was chief guest at the event. Johny Luis, another stalwart from Navelim village was the guest of honor.

The tournament played at Bayan Grounds attracted 16 strong teams. Matches were officiated by Victor Andrade, Jerry D’Mello, John Furtado, Robert Bernard, etc. John Furtado officiated the final supported by Simao Gaunkar and Joaquim Rodrigues on the lines.

At the prize distribution ceremony that ensued, Navelim YC vice-president Mario (Katty) Carneiro introduced the guests and addressed the teams. Chief guest Rubin Fernandes, in his brief speech thanked Navelim for inviting him and said he was very impressed by the grand organization and festive atmosphere on the grounds.

Tase Noronha of Navelim Villagers Cultural Cell proposed a vote of thanks. Gasper Crasto compered the final presentation. Earlier, everyone was thrilled by the surprise entry of Santa Claus who glided around the ground distributing goodies and gifts to children.

Glittering trophies, prizes and individual gifts for the finalists were distributed at the hands of Rubin Fernandes, Johny Luis, Mario Carneiro, Eusebio Fernandes, Maurice D’Costa, Duarte Pires, Nela Rodrigues, Valencie Carneiro, Royston Fernandes, Avril Rodrigues, Esparansa Crasto, Cajetan Pereira, etc.

All images of the event were captured on camera by Francisco Rodrigues.

Following prizes were awarded:

Fair Play Award – Indian Strikers

Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament – Reagan Miranda (Curtorcares United)

Man of the Match – Younes (Malabar United)

Player of the Tournament – Allwyn (St. Anthony, Siolim)