Green Booters succumb to UST
The De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Booters experienced a setback as they succumbed to the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers, 1–2, in a match held earlier today at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman Football Stadium.
In the first half, the Green Booters seized the initial possession, and a vibrant interchange of passes ensued among the players. La Salle showcased their strategic passing prowess while UST focused on disrupting the former’s rhythm and asserting their dominance. In the 11th minute, Kyler Escobar positioned himself just beyond the penalty box, engaging in a physical duel with Frank Labayen. This would amount to no score change.
Despite UST creating several scoring opportunities in the 15th minute, the Green Booters exhibited resilience and displayed solid defensive skills. Chris Valderama’s relentless pressure presented challenges for La Salle, but the Green and White met this head-on, executing commendable defensive maneuvers. Meanwhile, throughout the match, the synergy between Escobar and Justine Marquez was palpable on the field.
The Green Booters demonstrated skillful passing throughout the game, putting pressure on UST, yet the latter did not falter, showcasing strong defensive tactics. Mo Almohjili nearly broke the deadlock but was thwarted by Tiger goalie Jose Abada’s defensive prowess. Then the first corner kick for UST was taken by Jan Baito, which was brilliantly defended by Luis Elnas. Despite La Salle’s persistent attacks, UST’s defense remained resolute, denying them any clear shots. An Escobar shot attempt was intercepted by Stephen Del Rosario, resulting in a foul. Marquez’s subsequent goal effort then narrowly misses the target.
Amidst numerous goal attempts, the Green Booters’ defense shined, determined to prevent the Tigers from scoring. A few sequences later, Almohjili received a yellow card as tensions on the field escalated. The first half soon finished with neither squad getting on the scoreboard.
At the start of the second half, both teams were eager to score the opening goal. UST would end up attaining this during the 51st minute when Marquez secured the first goal of the match, 0–1, placing the Tigers in the lead.
From there, the intensity from both squads escalated as UST pushed for another goal while the Green Booters stood firm on defense. The Green Booters continued to energetically pursue an inaugural goal, employing a mix of attacking strategies and defensive tactics. In the 53rd minute, Isaac Anoh initiated a run but this was countered by Abada clearing the ball. Following this, both teams exchanged ball possession up until the 66th minute where Paolo Go orchestrated a series of maneuvers in a bid to score, but this proved futile as UST’s defense held steady.
Three minutes later, tragedy struck as Escobar scored another goal for the Tigers, 0–2. From there, La Salle continued to aim for their first goal, while keeping their defense up. But no other goals would occur for a while, up until the 80th minute when Green and White finally scored their first goal, as Go slotted the ball in the box, narrowing the separation to 1–2.
Nearing the end of the match, Anoh attempted to equalize during the first few seconds of stoppage time. But this was cleared by UST defenders. In the following minute after, a corner kick was awarded to La Salle which was taken by Gabe Suarez. Abado however was there to make the catch. Soon, the match drew to a close, 1–2, with UST edging out DLSU to claim 4th place in the overall standings.
Witness the Green Booters as they strive to bounce back against the Adamson Soaring Falcons on April 4, 6:30 PM, at the same venue.
