Heading into its crucial matchup against De La Salle Zobel last Saturday, PAREF Southridge knew anything was possible — especially after ending Far Eastern University-Diliman’s winning streak in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ High School Football Tournament the previous weekend.
With confidence running high, the Admirals received an extra boost upon learning that Junior Archers’ lead defender Bacchus Ekberg was suspended due to yellow card accumulation.
As the game hung in the balance, Francis Poticano rose to the occasion, delivering in the biggest moments.
The Grade 10 winger found the back of the net in the 64th and 80th minutes, sealing a 2-1 victory for Southridge and putting the team’s Final Four fate in its own hands.
“I’m so happy. I got to score a brace and I really thank God for such an opportunity,” said Poticano.
“I guess we should obviously stay calm and consistent because so far, we’re doing really well.”
While acknowledging Ekberg’s absence as a key factor, Poticano emphasized the importance of maintaining their momentum.
“I think the only thing we have to do is stay consistent, and I feel like we can make up for it. Ekberg is an amazing player, and knowing that he was off the pitch definitely brought confidence to the team — it really impacted the game,” he added.
Poticano’s two-goal performance could prove to be a turning point for the Admirals, especially if they manage to clinch a semifinal berth.
Their hopes received another boost when Ateneo de Manila University lost to FEU-D later that day, leaving Southridge just two points behind the Blue Eagles in the standings.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Before their decisive clash on March 15, both teams will face separate challenges this Saturday. Southridge goes up against the Claret Red Roosters, while Ateneo takes on the UST Junior Golden Booters.
On paper, the circumstances favor the Admirals. However, Poticano remains focused, urging his team to take it one game at a time.
“I feel like we’ve become more comfortable and settled in the UAAP environment, with the crowd and the pressure,” he said. “I like how the team handles it — we’re feeling much more at ease now. It brings me joy to see the happy faces in the crowd.
“I’m just grateful for this opportunity to win and compete against the big dogs.”
Poticano also hopes Southridge’s strong run will send a message to the league.
“I’ll truly be happy, and I think it will make an impact in the UAAP if guest teams can break into the top four. I also hope and pray that we make it to the final.”
With four goals this season, Poticano has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout talents. Having started playing football at just two years old, he draws inspiration from his older brother David, a former Davao Aguilas player.
Like many young footballers, he dreams big — and he’s grateful that Southridge has provided him with the platform to chase those dreams.
“I started my first few years in San Beda Alabang, then I moved to Southridge in Grade 4,” Poticano shared.
“I felt like I had better opportunities here, and now that we’re in the UAAP, I’m really happy about that.”
