National University Bulldogs winger John Nico Macapal is emerging as one of the team’s key figures this season. He currently leads all goalscorers in the early part of the season, with three goals to his name. With plenty of games still in store, Macapal is looking forward to scoring a lot more to help his team get to where they want to be.
Speaking after their 2-0 win against Adamson last Sunday, Macapal felt relieved to end the game with a goal. “Parang nahirapan kami. Kabado kasi sa first half hindi nasunod ‘yung play. Sa second half, bumawi kami,” he assessed. For him, the team still has some way to go. Communication seems to be an underlying problem early in the season and Macapal believes that fixing it as soon as possible is vital for accomplishing their objectives.
Personally, Macapal is grateful to contribute goals for his team’s cause. In both of NU’s games, the winger has been proactive in the attacking third. He now has three goals in two games, more than any other player in the tournament. In the game against Adamson, Macapal also had several chances to find the back of the net before team captain Paolo Salenga broke the deadlock with a late penalty. The winger thanked God for guiding him in his recent exploits, which now give him the confidence to score more in their next few games. “Alam ko naman na hindi ako nawawalan ng gana sa laro kahit malas na malas ako, naka-goal pa rin,” he shared.
Moving forward, Macapal admitted that he has set the goal of scoring in each game. “Iyon ang pangarap ko sa team. Kung iiskor ako, lahat naman damay-damay,” he told. Finding the back of the net tomorrow may be daunting for Macapal as his team will face the Far Eastern University. Not intimidated by their reputable foes, the league’s current top scorer thinks keeping the right focus is key towards accomplishing his mission.
Macapal and his teammates will put their 100% record to the test, together with his goalscoring streak, tomorrow afternoon when they cross paths with the Tamaraws. Approaching it just like any other game, the up-and-coming Bulldog hopes to carry his bright form into the crucial encounter. The match will be televised on ABS-CBN Sports and Action.
