DEFENDING champion Far Eastern University extended its winning run to four matches following a 3-0 dismantling of Adamson University Thursday night in the UAAP Season 86 men’s football tournament at the UP Football Stadium.
The Tamaraws gained full points despite missing the services of Martini Rey, Sewlyn Mamon, and RJ Pescadera, who were suspended after accumulating two yellow cards this season.
Jermi Darapan’s 22nd-minute penalty pushed FEU in front.
The Falcons were able to escape 10 minutes later after keeper Andrew Nalog saved Darapan’s spot kick that could have doubled the Tamaraws’ lead.
Karl Absalon then found the back of the net in the 65th minute for his third goal of the season to give FEU a 2-0 cushion.
Abdulnasser Mustapa launched a stoppage time screamer to put the match to bed for the Tamaraws.
“Our last goal, Mustapa was able to step up even though he is fasting,” said FEU coach Alberto Besa on the midfielder, who is observing Ramadan.
“There were other players who stepped up also. There were some crucial saves that Jet (Fabrigas) made. You have to give it to Adamson. They came up with some decent attempts,” he added.
The Falcons’ closest chance to pull one back came in the 86th-minute, when Nikko Arañas’ shot hit the woodwork.
FEU now sat on top of the table with 12 points, two clear of Ateneo.
“Overall, we saw the team really wanted to win. They created chances. They wanted to end the first round with a bang,” said Besa.
Adamson remained at the bottom of the standings with two points.
In the final first round matchday on Sunday, the Tamaraws will play the UST Golden Booters, while the Falcons go up against the UP Fighting Maroons.
