By: Nicole Parallag
CITY OF IMUS — De La Salle University outlasted a resilient University of the Philippines side to secure a gritty 2-0 win in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Football Tournament on Saturday at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub here.
Sophomore Dani Tanjangco broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time, slotting in her second goal of the season after finally breaking through a stubborn Fighting Maroons defense anchored by goalkeeper Mariel Sancho, who stood tall against every attempt.
UP’s woes compounded in the 61st minute when Gabby Calope accidentally scored an own goal while defending inside the box, handing La Salle a much-needed cushion.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“For this game, our preparation was bad,” admitted coach Alvin Ocampo. “Luck was only on our side, especially with that second goal. We did not have enough days to train because of where we were situated, as we were hit by the typhoon. We’re just lucky today, and it was still a positive result for the girls.”
With the win, the Lady Booters remained atop the standings with nine points and a +4 goal difference.
La Salle now sets its sights on completing a perfect first round when it clashes with defending champion Far Eastern University in a rematch of last season’s final next Saturday at 6:30 p.m. on the same Imus pitch.
“We still have one week to prepare for the match against FEU,” said Ocampo. “It’s still early since it’s only the first round, but at least we’ll be able to prepare for them.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
UP, meanwhile, failed to break through La Salle’s defense despite Sancho’s inspired efforts in goal that prevented the Lady Booters from extending their lead further.
Cris Mae Montero had a late chance in the 86th minute, but her attempt sailed wide.
The Fighting Maroons remain at the bottom of the table with zero points and a -7 goal difference.
UP will try to close its first-round campaign on a positive note against Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., also at Vermosa.
