By: Nicole Parallag
Jada Bicierro delivered a crucial strike in the second half as Ateneo de Manila University battled to a 1-1 draw against the University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament, Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Field in Quezon City.
Down by a goal, the 19-year-old forward found the back of the net in the 79th minute to level the score and deny the Lady Booters a full three points.
It was a well-earned finish for Bicierro — her third goal of the season — as the former national futsal team standout consistently tested the UST defense with dangerous attempts from the opening whistle.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“Jada is always a game changer,” said Ateneo coach Bob Manlulo. “I guess we rose up to the challenge. I told the players that for us to win or even draw against UST, we have to level up with their physical game.
“So I think the players did their job. They basically had fun rising up to the challenges,” he added.
UST drew first blood in the 59th minute through Christy Logastua, who calmly slotted the ball into the net after Ateneo goalkeeper Chelssy Casals was caught off her line.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
The Lady Booters nearly reclaimed the lead in the 82nd minute when substitute Jillian Jalnaz attempted to score a late winner. However, she could not convert as the two sides ultimately shared the spoils at full time.
Both teams wrapped up the first round with four points apiece.
UST stayed in third place with a -1 goal difference, while Ateneo settled for fourth with -4.
