Wilmer Timothy Lopez’s goal was enough as Ateneo de Manila University opened its UAAP Season 85 Men’s Football Tournament campaign with a 1-0 victory over neighbor University of the Philippines, Thursday, at the UP Diliman Football Field.
The British International School-Phuket alumnus tapped the ball home from close range in the 21st minute to score the game’s only goal.
Despite the victory, Ateneo coach JP Merida was disappointed in his team after the game.
“We were good in the first 15 minutes. That’s the reason why we scored,” said Merida. “I’m very disappointed. I don’t know what happened in the second half. My players approached me that they were tired, especially their legs. I need to talk to my physiotherapist and my conditioning coach about what was happening.”
Amidst the Fighting Maroons’ continuous bombardment, the Blue Eagles’ backline managed to repel attack after attack. Ateneo goalkeeper Artuz Cezar, though, proved to be a rock at the heart of the defense. The erstwhile Ateneo High School standout made multiple saves to protect the Katipunan school’s lead.
With the game hanging by a balance during 11 minutes of added time in the second half, UP threw everything it could against Ateneo but the latter ultimately pulled through in the end.
“I’m very, very sorry talaga sa naging performance ng team especially in the second half,” added Merida. “We didn’t expect na ganun yung mangyayari. We didn’t plan on playing a low block. Our plan was to attack. It’s very difficult to manage if you’re leading by just one goal.”
Ateneo (3 points) will return to action this Sunday against University of Santo Tomas at 2:00 PM. On the other hand, UP (3 points) shall go up against UST as well next Thursday at 6:00 PM. Both games will be held at the same venue.
UP XI: Tiambeng, Bugayong, Tobias, Togores, Pagdanganan, FA Tacardon, Huelva, Guariña, FC Tacardon, Basmayor, Lobitana.
ADMU XI: Cezar, Lopez, Salud, dela Cruz, Cariño, Agyei, Maquiling, Roxas, Mercado, Lopez, Fernandez.
