By: Nicole Parallag
Selwyn Mamon’s brace powered Far Eastern University to a commanding 3-1 victory over De La Salle University, securing second place at the end of the first round of the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium in Quezon City.
The 21-year-old standout from Iloilo opened the scoring for the Tamaraws in the 28th minute, capitalizing on a well-placed corner kick from Kean Niu with a powerful header.
Just five minutes later, Mamon doubled the lead with another header — this time connecting with a pinpoint cross from RJ Buenafe — to put FEU firmly in control.
Substitute Theo Jico Libarnes sealed the win in the 64th minute, calmly slotting home a perfectly timed through ball from Ace Amita.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“I think we controlled the game,” said coach Jake Morallo.
“I think we dominated all of the minutes in the way we attack and how we defend sa team. Selwyn and Theo‘s goals were unexpected. All it took was the right timing. Hopefully, our two goal scorers will be consistent in the second round,” he added.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
After Mamon’s brace, Lucas Aguilar pulled one back for La Salle in the 43rd minute to narrow the gap just before halftime.
Forward John Gaverza nearly added another for the Green Booters in the 70th minute, but substitute goalkeeper Quentin Sanchez — making his debut for the Tamaraws — stood tall to deny the attempt and preserve FEU’s two-goal cushion.
With the win, the Tamaraws climbed to second place with 11 points and a +5 goal difference. Meanwhile, the Green Booters dropped to fourth with eight points and a neutral goal difference.
