Substitute Kofi Agyei struck late to propel Ateneo de Manila University to a 1-0 win over Adamson University in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Football Tournament, Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Field.
The Ghanian foreign student-athlete, who came on for Kristian Cordero in the 46th minute, executed a fine finish past goalkeeper Andrew Nalog in added.
“Hopefully, makuha na niya yung rhythm niya as a striker,” said Blue Eagles coach JP Merida. “Ang daming rotation. We improvised. This is his second game na late talaga siya nag-start so yun yung mga plans. Hopefully next game against FEU, makuha niya yung rhythm niya sa scoring.”
Agyei’s goal broke the Falcons’ hearts as they had multiple chances beforehand to break the deadlock.
Adamson substitute Carl Franz Mahinay shot wide when he was through on goal while winger James Gardon shot over off a cross from attacking midfielder Darlton Digha.
“Of course, very important three points,” said Merida. “We’re happy even if we scored late. Nung first half, late kami palagi sa second ball or yung mga challenge but again, it’s three points. Yun yung kailangan namin ngayon. We’re happy. We need to accept these three points.”
The result meant that the Blue Eagles raised their record in the standings to seven points on the back of two wins, one draw, and one defeat. On the other hand, the Falcons have yet to secure a point after five matches.
Ateneo will return to action this Thursday against Far Eastern University at 4:00 PM. On the other hand, Adamson will face University of Santo Tomas next Sunday at 4:00 PM.
Adamson XI: Nalog (GK), Buenaobra, Casing, Digha, Francisco, Jose (C), Arañas, Napili, Parao, Banagodos, Tirado.
Ateneo XI: Cezar (GK), Lopez, Salud, Dela Cruz, Carino, Maquiling, Cordero, Mercado (C), Lopez, Abaa, Fernandez.
