The National University Bulldogs’ quest for a post-season ticket was handed a big push after a 1-0 win against the University of the East Red Warriors, today at the Far Eastern University-Diliman field in Quezon City.
Patrick’s Valenzuela’s (45+2′) goal was enough for the Bulldogs, as they are now solo fourth in the standings.
“Happy tayo panalo pero the way we won, hindi ako happy. We have gave more than eight fouls in the last 10 minutes ng game. Eight fouls on our own half. Hindi talaga puwede yan,” lamented NU coach Mari Aberasturi.
After a competitive start to the game, NU raced to a 1-0 lead at the eve of halftime. Elmer Sampaga provided a good pass to Valenzuela, who found himself space to shoot past UE goalie Frank Rieza in the 45+2 minute.
UE struggled in the game without forward Mar Diano, who was serving a suspension. After the break, NU could have doubled their lead when Lawrence Colina had the ball laid to him in front of the UE goal, only for him to squander the opportunity.
The Bulldogs should have sealed the game as early as the 54th minute ,when the Red Warriors conceded a penalty after a foul in their box. Colina stepped up, struck the ball, and watched it hit the right post.
The Red Warriors controlled possession, as the Bulldogs comfortably set up a low defensive block to pounce on a counterattack. Needless to say, the Bulldogs repelled whatever run or pass made by the Red Warriors.
Alberto Echin squanders what should have been the equalizer for the Red Warriors late in the game. In the end, NU settled for a narrow 1-0 win. At this stage of the season, a win is a win regardless of the scoreline. As it stands, this could finally be the year NU enters the Final Four.
Up next for National U (16 points) are the De La Salle University on March 30, 4:00 PM, at Ateneo’s Moro Lorenzo Field in Katipunan. UE (5 points) shall play the Far Eastern University on April 1, 3:00 PM, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
“Tough opponent yung La Salle kasi even if we defeated them sa first round, it’s not a gauge that we’ll defeat them again. It’s back to zero. We have to prepare again for that game this Thursday,” declared Aberasturi.
NU XI: Arbela, Colina, Dagsa, Fabro, Lawagan, Padernal, Pepito, Sampaga, Sullano, Valenzuela, Viray
UE XI: Absalon, Dagaraga, Galaura, Lerion, Malayo, Opeña, Polinag, Rieza, Saldivar, Sola, Vergara
