UST sends UE at cusp of elimination

c/o UAAP

Women's Football Matches on Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

4 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo

6:30 p.m. - UST vs FEU

University of the East revived its Final Four hopes following a 3-3 stalemate with fourth-running University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Football Tournament on Thursday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

The Red Warriors rose to eight points and -15 goal difference, just seven points behind the Golden Booters’ 15 markers and 0 GD. Both teams still have two matches left in their eliminations schedule.

“Actually, I’m proud of these players (and) proud of my team. In spite of the fact of not having enough facilities, this team will really train on a regular basis. But you know, in the game, they showed their heart and their pride,” said UE coach Frank Muescan.

Edmar Adonis’ cross met Jerome Abarca for a long-range goal in the second minute, setting a dream start for UE, but UST answered with three unanswered goals.

Chris Valderama scored at the 27th minute before Kyler Escobar fired twice as the Golden Booters suddenly found themselves with a two-goal cushion.

UE’s chances as the match progressed eventually turned into back-to-back goals bridging the interval. UST goalkeeper Miguel Abada tried to save an initial attempt on the counterattack, but the ball bounced off his right hand. Eldrin Madrid was there on the rebound and headed the ball into the goal for the Red Warriors’ second.

In the second half, the two squads figured in a back-and-forth action until the Red Warriors was given a kick from the penalty spot, which Edmar Adonis turned into the equalizer at the 77th minute.

Multiple chances for a winner went begging for UE, including a Keith Hermoso shot in stoppage time, but his shot hit the near post.

“Actually, UE is a future team. I've been with them for like 10 months and I’m looking forward for them in the next season and the rest of the season to come. Ito mag e-excel to,” Muescan added.

The Red Warriors will have their hands full against league-leading Ateneo De Manila University Blue Eagles on Thursday.

UST’s day further went south as John Mark Garcia was sent off in the 82nd minute with two yellow cards in the match.

The Golden Booters will face the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons on Sunday.