Macky Tobias delivered the decisive goal as University of the Philippines edged Adamson University, 1-0, to clinch a Final Four berth the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Thursday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
Tobias, the hero of last season’s final with his championship-sealing penalty kick against Far Eastern University, showcased his scoring prowess once again.
In the 44th minute, he unleashed a powerful strike that ricocheted off the post before crossing the line, giving the Fighting Maroons the advantage just before halftime.
Despite the victory, UP head coach Popoy Clarino was candid about his team’s performance. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards as the season approaches its critical stages.
“The goal is to set high standards,” said Clarino. “If we want to defend our title, we have to wake up, put our feet on the ground, and work as hard as we can.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The Fighting Maroons struggled to capitalize on their chances early in the match, with Adamson goalkeeper Christian Jed Lauron standing tall.
Lauron denied multiple attempts from Ramil Bation III, Joseph Garces, and Viggo Herce, frustrating UP’s attacking unit.
The second half followed a similar narrative, with Lauron producing a string of remarkable saves to keep the Soaring Falcons within striking distance.
On the other end, Adamson’s Lee Christian Hayahay, Pius Marcus Cueno, and Prince Baculot came close to finding the equalizer but were unable to breach UP’s defense.
In the dying moments of the match, Adamson was awarded a free kick, but UP goalkeeper Chevey Deo Celeste ensured the victory with a crucial save, preserving the clean sheet and securing three valuable points for the defending champions.
“Fantastic si Lauron,” praised Clarino. “He played very well. I think he made some crucial saves — top-class saves — and we have to give him credit for that.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The Fighting Maroons are now riding a four-match winning streak and aim to secure their Final Four spot when they face University of Santo Tomas this Sunday at 6:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the loss left the Soaring Falcons at the bottom of the standings with three points and a -26 goal difference.
Adamson will look to bounce back against Ateneo de Manila University this Thursday at 2 p.m., before concluding their season against the University of the East on December 1.
