One of the most exciting things coming into a new season is the wave of new talent. New players always add a sprinkle of thrill, expectation and pressure for any team. For the De La Salle University Green Archers, that particular rookie is Mathew Custodio.
Custodio made his UAAP debut in a goalless draw against defending champions University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons last Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
The attacking midfielder played 75 minutes in the aforementioned contest before being subbed out for fellow rookie Chris Lawless. He put in a good shift, and is surely bound to have a better connection with his teammates as the season progresses.
“I mean personally I was nervous,” admitted Custodio.
“I haven’t played a competitive game in over a year because I’ve been training, trying out lang. I was ready physically but I wouldn’t say I was ready mentally for this game.
“Hopefully the next game I come back and mawala na ang nerbyos sa loob. At least na let out ko na. I know the mistakes I made,” he conceded.
“I’m just hoping for a comeback.”
Playing in the UAAP is a different animal compared to other sporting competitions in the country. A lot of people venture to different venues around Metro Manila to not only watch a good game, but also to support the athletes and their respective alma maters.
“It felt great. Just looking at the stands, all the people, all the drums, it gives you the feeling talaga that you have to give everything that you have for the school inside the field and it’s just an exciting feeling playing for the school and playing my first game,” shared the Under-19 national team stalwart.
This year is the fifth tour of duty for Custodio in the Green and White. He had previously played in La Salle Green Hills where he won the NCAA Juniors Football Championship and is now looking to add a UAAP title in his résumé.
“I’ve noticed and felt the emotional hunger of our seniors and you know that the past years haven’t been good years for La Salle. There are expectations from coaches, my families and friends, alumni and my teammates. They expect a lot this year,” the Sports Management student shared.
“We’ll give them a good fight.”
