IMUS — Sans its head coach and two key players, the University of the Philippines kicked off its UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the resilient University of the East on Sunday at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub here.
Ramil Bation III, who scored seven goals for the Fighting Maroons last season, opened his account for the campaign with a 39th-minute header off a set-piece, giving UP some breathing room against UE.
“It was a good goal,” said assistant coach Ojay Clarino, who deputized for his older brother Popoy due to the latter’s touchline ban following last year’s altercation with Far Eastern University in the Season 87 semifinals.
“Also, it was a good delivery from Cian Galsim. As long as the ball is delivered well, we have players inside who can capitalize.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Trailing by a goal, UE struggled to convert its possession into scoring opportunities.
The Red Warriors struck the post moments after Bation’s goal, and the second half saw them launch a series of tentative shots and entries into the Fighting Maroons’ box, but nothing came of it — even with two UP players down on the pitch.
In the seven minutes of added time, UE substitute Edmar Adonis had a free kick that UP goalkeeper Alfonso Gonzalez handled easily.
UE had one last chance to equalize in the dying moments, but a cross from the right flank was not met by any Red Warrior and was cleared for a corner.
Gonzalez then secured the ball in the ensuing play, ensuring that UP held on for the narrow victory.
Aside from head coach Popoy Clarino, Charles Lobitaña and Eric Mink Cachuella were also absent due to their involvement in last year’s incident against the Tamaraws.
UP will next face FEU on Thursday at 7:00 PM at the same Cavite venue, in a rematch of last year’s semifinal clash.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
With two perennial championship contenders set to collide, Ojay Clarino emphasized that the Fighting Maroons are not seeking revenge but remain focused on securing three points to maintain their winning start.
“Maybe for the players it feels like revenge, but we’re focusing on one game at a time,” he said.
“The goal is to correct our mistakes and improve as a team as the season progresses.”
Meanwhile, UE will look to bounce back against De La Salle University in Thursday’s 2:00 PM kickoff at Vermosa.
