MARGAO: Navelim Sporting rallied from behind to record a convincing 3-1 victory over Verna Sports Club in the inaugural match of 34th Cana-Benaulim soccer tournament, organised by Cana-Benaulim SA at St John Baptist grounds, Dando-Benaulim.

After a barren first session, in which the ball was mostly confined to the midfield, both the teams made some attacking forays soon on changing ends. Verna was the first team to taste success as winger John D’Costa smartly headed in a cross from the right flank by Martisio in the 33rd minute. Navelim regrouped with Francis Fernandes and Dominic Cabral in control of the midfield and it was Dominic who restored parity for Navelim with a neat finish from close range.

Verna rued their luck as rival keeper Johnathan Faleiro brought off a splendid save from the penalty taken by Manuel and the losers where punished further by Navelim with striker Sanford Cardozo giving the lead by latching on to a pass from Milton Gomes in the 53rd minute. Navelim consolidated their position eight minutes later as striker Roelteo D’Costa finding the net from inside the box with a right footed shot.

Earlier, the chief guest for the opening match Fr Victor Viegas, Chaplain of Patrocinio Chapel was introduced to the players by club president Mr Agnelo Fernandes and organising secretary Mr Constancio Fernandes.