University of the East kept its Final Four aspirations alive after a dramatic 3-3 draw with fourth-running University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Football Tournament on Thursday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
The Red Warriors improved to eight points with a -15 goal difference, seven points behind the Golden Booters, who sit at 15 points with a 0 goal difference.
Both teams have two matches remaining in the elimination round.
“Actually, I’m proud of these players and my team,” said UE coach Frank Muescan. “In spite of not having enough facilities, this team trains regularly. But you know, in the game, they showed their heart and their pride.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The match began with fireworks as Edmar Adonis delivered a pinpoint cross that Jerome Abarca converted into a stunning long-range goal just two minutes in, giving UE a dream start.
However, UST quickly regrouped and responded with three consecutive goals.
Chris Valderama equalized in the 27th minute, and Kyler Escobar followed with a brace to give the Golden Booters a 3-1 lead, seemingly putting them in control.
UE refused to back down, finding momentum late in the first half.
Eldrin Madrid capitalized on a counterattack, heading in a rebound off UST goalkeeper Miguel Abada’s deflection to cut the deficit to 3-2 before the halftime whistle.
The second half was a gripping back-and-forth affair. In the 77th minute, UE was awarded a penalty after a UST defensive lapse.
Adonis stepped up to the spot and calmly slotted home the equalizer, sending the Red Warriors’ supporters into a frenzy.
UE had opportunities to seal the win, including a golden chance in stoppage time when Keith Hermoso’s shot struck the near post.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Actually, UE is a future team. I’ve been with them for like 10 months, and I’m looking forward to seeing them grow next season and in the seasons to come. Ito, mag-e-excel to ,” Muescan added.
Meanwhile, UST’s day worsened when John Mark Garcia was sent off in the 82nd minute after receiving his second yellow card.
The Red Warriors face a daunting challenge against league-leading Ateneo de Manila University next Thursday, while the Golden Booters will look to bounce back against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons on Sunday.
