By: Nicole Parallag
CITY OF IMUS — Jarred Regis salvaged a point for the University of Santo Tomas after forcing a 2-2 draw with Adamson University in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Thursday at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub here.
The third-year centerback rose for a header past Soaring Falcons goalkeeper Sean Chua in the 68th minute, ensuring that the Golden Booters’ unbeaten run remained intact.
With the result, UST climbed to first place with four points and a +1 goal difference, edging Ateneo de Manila University, the University of the Philippines, and De La Salle University.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“We almost lost the game in the second half, but credit to the boys for fighting until the final minutes, and we almost won as well because we had two or three chances. So it’s good for us that we’re going home not losing,” shared UST head coach Marjo Allado.
UST first broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Chris Valderama fired past a charging Chua to put the Golden Booters ahead.
Adamson nearly equalized late in the first half, but Roberto Roldan’s attempt was denied by a crucial save from goalkeeper Mark Daig.
The Soaring Falcons roared back in the second half, taking the lead with back-to-back goals from Dany Goko and Carl Mahinay in the 51st and 63rd minutes.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Goko converted from the penalty spot, while Mahinay completed a well-built attack to put Adamson on top, 2-1.
“Honestly, we’re not satisfied, you know, we came here for three points. We really wanted to win today. It’s a good game. We had two good goals, but then still, we gave away those two goals,” said Adamson head coach Darlton Digha.
“So now, they know we have to get three points against FEU, so we’re coming for three points.”
UST will next face Ateneo on Thursday, October 2, at 4:30 PM on the same pitch.
Meanwhile, Adamson will continue to chase its first win against Far Eastern University on Sunday at 6:30 PM.
