THE UST Booters fought gallantly and posted a respectable finish in the Chris Monfort Memorial Festival in the Ateneo field last June 24.
The event, which was held in honor of the late Philippine football team player, showcased some of the best football teams in the country. A total of 40 squads saw action in the men’s division while 15 teams participated in the women’s division.
The UST Growling Booters relied on their explosive offensive patterns as they exacted revenge on UAAP tormentor DLSU Green Booters, 5-0. Next in line for the UAAP second runners-up was the tough Manila Football Club (MFC). After an exchange of missed goals, the veteran MFC squad prevailed, 1-0.
Then, the España-based Booters faced the Kaya Club. Although the Growling Booters dished out a sterling performance, they still yielded to the assault of a more experienced foe and dropped another 1-0 decision.
The loss prevented the Growling Booters a shot at the next stage as their performance yielded only seven points. MFC and the Kaya Club, which tied at eight points, advanced to the next round.
The Lady Booters, on the other hand, drew their first two games to open their performance in lackluster fashion. Then, they vented their frustrations on a hapless Miriam College squad for a 3-0 rout. Lady Booters Aleli Bonifacio, Ginger Loarca, and Jonalyn Evangelista all scored in the game that saw the España-based Booters dish out their sleek offensive plays.
However, UST’s victory was short-lived as the under-19 National team trounced them, 1-0.
Battling for second place in their bracket, the Lady Booters fell prey to a more experienced Alumni Football Club (AFC) and dropped a heart-breaking 1-0 decision.
Despite their failure to rule the Memorial tournament, Lady Booters coach Gil Talavera expressed his happiness.
“Very tragic kasi ang nangyari (Monfort’s death). Kaya nga masaya kami na kahit papaano, naka-participate kami sa tournament honoring him. Although maganda sanang maka-place dito, hindi naman talaga winning ang purpose ng mga ganitong competition. More on goodwill ang gusto naming mangyari, kaya nga walang masyadong na-yellow o red card dito,” said Talavera, who is also the assistant coach of the Growling Booters.
Before his untimely death in a tragic car accident two weeks ago, Monfort spearheaded the football program in the country as the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) secretary general.
His sudden and tragic death left the Philippine football scene without a beacon to guide them in future endeavors. However, the PFF decided that a one-day football spectacle of the top teams in the country would be a perfect event to honor the football great.
“This is one small way of recognizing Monfort’s major contribution in promoting and popularizing football in our country. If the sport is showing a comeback, much of the credit goes to Monfort’s efforts,” Adad said. D.I. Dizon
