By: Nicole Parallax
CITY OF IMUS — Rookie Jodie Banzon made a statement as De La Salle University narrowly defeated University of Santo Tomas, 2–1, in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Football Tournament on Wednesday at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub here.
The young winger announced her arrival in style, scoring the match’s go-ahead goal in the 14th minute. She took advantage of a defensive lapse by the Lady Golden Booters, calmly slotting the ball into the back of the net.
The 19-year-old from Sacred Heart-Ateneo de Cebu later set up Dani Tanjangco’s header in the 57th minute, effectively sealing La Salle’s win.
With the victory, the Lady Green Booters now top the standings with six points from two wins and a goal difference of +2.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“It was a long time coming, but still, I don’t want to settle for just one goal. They need to make their contribution throughout the season,” shared fourth-year Head Coach Alvin Ocampo.
“Luck was still on our side. UST almost scored a tying goal in the last few minutes, so we’re still lucky today, and I don’t know how luck will bring us forward.”
Before Tanjangco doubled La Salle’s lead, Maria Layacan came close in the 36th minute.
Her initial strike rattled the crossbar, and although the rebound fell favorably for a second attempt, her follow-up went straight into the hands of UST goalkeeper Lizlie Garcia.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
La Salle will aim to extend its winning streak against the University of the Philippines on Saturday at 4:00 PM at the same Imus pitch.
UST managed to pull one back in the 64th minute as Ivy Tapiz capitalized on a scramble inside the box, but it was not enough to change the outcome.
The Lady Golden Booters, now third in the standings with three points and a 0-goal difference, will look to bounce back against defending champions Far Eastern University on Wednesday at 4:00 PM at the same venue.
