Goa, Aug. 21 -- Team Herald

sports@herald-goa.com

PANJIM: In a thrilling contest, Stars de Goa (Legends) downed the spirited Indian Navy 2-0 in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd in the Independence Day exhibition football match played at the Santa Cruz ground, recently.

The match began with both teams testing each other's goalkeepers. The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Mascarenhas released Kodale down the right flank. Kodale darted into the box and squared the ball to Robert Fernandes, who calmly slotted home the opener, sending the crowd into raptures.

The Navy responded with a fierce strike from captain Sourabh Malik, only for goalkeeper Martin Pereira to make a brilliant save. The score remained 1-0 at half-time. ...