After nine long years, University of Santo Tomas finally triumphed over the University of the Philippines, surviving a thrilling 1-0 victory in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Thursday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
This hard-fought match marked a significant milestone for the Golden Booters, who had faced the Fighting Maroons in a challenging Final Four clash the previous year, where they were eliminated in an epic penalty shootout that lasted 18 spot-kicks.
Key to UST’s victory was seniorgoalkeeper Jose Miguel Abada, whose exceptional performance included several crucial saves that helped maintain his UST’s narrow lead.
The decisive goal came from Kyler Escobar, who struck in the 28th minute, igniting hopes for a championship run this season.
This win also brought a sweet sense of revenge for Abada and the Golden Booters, who were eager to make a statement against their rivals. Reflecting on the game, Abada expressed his joy:
“Siyempre, happy po kasi nakabawi kami sa UP and we really played our hearts out. Sabi ko nga sa huddle kanina na hindi pa tapos ang laro. Kailangan ibuhos namin ang lahat para makabawi sa UP.”
His commitment to the Tigers was fueled by a determination to overcome last year’s painful defeat.
Initially, there had been speculation that Abada would not return for his final year after the disappointing end to the previous season.
However, the anguish of that loss motivated him to don the UST jersey once more. With the Golden Booters last winning the championship in Season 69, this year presents Abada with a critical opportunity to help the school end its nearly two-decade drought.
“First of all, last season, bitin. Siyempre gusto ko ng championship. I wanted to play one more year para maipakita na I can help the younger people to, hopefully, get the championship in my last year,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of hard work, saying, “My expectation for UST is we’re gonna train hard and work hard for every game talaga kasi kailangan namin makauna kami kaagad.”
Currently, UST has had a mixed start to its Season 87 campaign, suffering a loss to University of the East before achieving their significant victory over the defending champions, UP.
As they move forward, the Golden Booters aim to establish consistency in their next ten matches of the elimination round.
Looking ahead, UST’s next challenge will be against De La Salle University on October 6, promising yet another thrilling encounter between the two teams. For Abada, the focus remains on preparation and gradual progress.
“Of course, like what I said before, we won’t underestimate our opponents, tapos we’re gonna really work hard for the goal talaga to win every game. But then, of course, baby steps muna. One game at a time muna,” he concluded.
