A groundbreaking dynasty has officially been promoted into a decade of excellence.
Far Eastern University-Diliman banked on Jacob Garciano’s brace to win 2-1 over Nazareth School of National University, and become the champions of the UAAP Season 82 High School Boys’ Football Tournament, Saturday evening at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Garciano produced two fine finishes in the 2nd and 30th minutes of the match to set the Baby Tamaraws on their way to the championship. This came amidst the constant bombardment from the Bullpups, who could only lament their lack of luck in front of goal.
“I didn’t expect that we’d score early, but it’s lucky we scored early. That’s why we had a good game there,” explained FEU coach Park Bo Bae.
Despite the two-goal deficit, the Bullpups never wavered, persevering until the very end. NU forward Eldrin Madrid in particular was a thorn against FEU all throughout the game. He finally got the goal he deserved in the 82nd minute when his free-kick went past Baby Tamaraws goalkeeper Lance Bencio.
Moments after Madrid’s strike, NU’s John Rey Daohog had a golden chance to level the contest, only for his attempt to go straight to the hands of Bencio.
“NU in the second half, they really, really pushed from behind earlier, but our substitute players had mistakes there. I think if we allowed one more goal, we may have had a hard time. But Lance really focused and blocked the ball, and that’s why he saved our team,” added Park.
Ultimately, though, it was the Baby Tamaraws’ night to savor as they prolonged a streak of dominance in the boys’ division, which started in Season 73.
“Our players were also a little bit pressured about the ten-peat, but our players overcame the pressure and then I told them just enjoy. This is the party. We cannot fix anything. We just apply what we learned before the season. I think our players really enjoyed this game,” concluded Park.
