Geno FC sail past Panjim Footballers

Flash Oct. 12, 2024, 8:15 p.m.
News 2 min read

 

Geno FC cruised to a commanding 5-1 victory over Panjim Footballers in the Goa Professional League at Duler Stadium, Mapusa, on Saturday. The match saw Geno take an early lead, with Franky Oliveiro finding the net first, followed by Irakanth Singh doubling the advantage. Panjim fought back momentarily when Ajay Raj tapped in to narrow the deficit, but Geno quickly reasserted control, with Flan Gomes scoring just before halftime to restore the two-goal cushion. In the second half, Mohammed Rafi extended the lead with a simple finish from a Niraj Parekh corner, and substitute Krishna Gawas capped off the dominant display, sealing the comprehensive win.

Following their recent triumph over Churchill Brothers, head coach Yash Nagwe made two changes to the starting lineup, introducing Akshat Hadkonkar in goal and Meinam Musharaf as a right full-back to bolster the defense. Panjim Footballers also made adjustments, with Bhaskar Jalmi stepping in as goalkeeper and Satish Kankonkar leading their attacking efforts.

Panjim almost broke the deadlock in the 6th minute after earning a free kick. Satish Kankonkar's effort from the set piece hit the defensive wall, but the rebound fell to Veron Pereira, who unleashed a fierce shot from the edge of the box. Geno goalkeeper Akshat Hadkonkar reacted brilliantly, making a crucial save to keep the scores level.

Recognizing the danger, Geno FC regrouped quickly and found their rhythm. Their persistence paid off in the 17th minute, with Franky Oliveiro striking the opener. Flan Gomes delivered a precise pass to Velito Cruz, who guided it toward goal, allowing Oliveiro to apply the finishing touch.

With momentum on their side, Geno soon doubled their advantage through Irakanth Singh. Lenstan Afonso launched a pinpoint long ball from midfield, splitting the Panjim defense and finding Irakanth, who deftly evaded the onrushing goalkeeper before slotting home into an empty net.

Panjim responded well to the setback, reducing the deficit when Ajay Raj slid in to tap home a free kick from Veron Pereira, whose long delivery into the Geno box created the opportunity. However, Geno quickly restored their two-goal cushion just before halftime. Sheldon Pereira whipped in a low cross that found Franky Oliveiro. His initial shot was blocked, but the clearance fell short, allowing Franky to set up Flan Gomes, who made no mistake in firing the ball into the net.

Geno continued their relentless attack in the second half, with Mohammed Rafi tapping in from a well-placed Niraj Parekh corner to extend the lead. Just minutes later, Krishna Gawas sealed the 5-1 win, finishing off a well-timed pass from Prajat Naik.