Striker Necio Fernandes was on fire today, scoring a brace to lead Goa to a resounding 2-0 victory over Kerala in their second Group A match of the 77th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy Final Round.

This win puts Goa firmly in second place behind leaders Services, and marks the second time this season the Goan team has gotten the better of their southern rivals!

Kerala started brightly, with Abdu Raheem K almost opening the scoring in the third minute. However, the tide turned in the 21st minute when their skipper Nijo Gilbert suffered an unfortunate hamstring injury and had to be replaced.

Goa, initially cautious, grew in confidence and capitalized on a loose ball in the 44th minute. Necio, our sharp-shooting hero, made no mistake, slotting the ball past the Kerala keeper for the crucial first goal.

The second half saw more of the same. Despite Kerala's attacks, a lapse in their defense allowed Necio to pounce again in the 58th minute.

 A perfectly timed diagonal ball from Shridharnath Gawas exposed the Kerala offside trap, leaving Laximanrao Rane with acres of space. His quick pass found Necio, who calmly slotted home his third goal in two games, sending the Goan contingent into raptures!

Kerala pushed hard for an equalizer, but our resolute defense stood firm. Abdu Raheem had a couple of good chances, but Antonio Inacio da Silva in the Goa goal proved unbeatable.

Substitute Sajeesh E also came close, but his header sailed wide. In the end, Goa held on for a well-deserved clean sheet and three crucial points!