THE UST men’s and women’s football teams both settled for scoreless draws in separate matches against the Ateneo de Manila University.
The Golden Booters failed in their quest to hand top-ranked Ateneo its first loss of the season, while the Lady Booters could not break free from Ateneo’s suffocating defense in their duel last Jan. 21 at the Ateneo Ocampo Football Field.
Golden Booter Peter Ricamora launched two attacks in the 61st and 65th minutes in hopes of snatching the victory for UST. But both shots went straight into the hands of Ateneo’s goalie.
With only four minutes left, Leo Liay’s attempt from the left flank was successfully deflected by UST’s goalkeeper.
“The team’s way of playing is now back,” coach Marjo Allado said. “Even though we had a draw today, we still dominated Ateneo in terms of attempts.”
UST’s Shinmar Felongco, whose back-to-back goals helped the Golden Booters blank National University (4-0) last Jan. 20, received a red card in the closing minutes and will miss a game.
In women’s play, Ateneo almost converted in the 59th, 62nd, and 78th minutes. But UST’s rookie goalkeeper Mira Nonato denied Ateneo each time.
The Lady Booters had their chances as well, including a sorry-miss attempt toward the left post in the 83rd minute.
“Okay naman ‘yung mga chances na nakuha natin,” coach Bon Estrabon said. “Pero baguhan pa rin ‘tong mga players natin. At least ngayon lumalaban na.”
Midfielder Joma Clemente, who scored both goals in UST’s 2-1 upset of Ateneo in their previous encounter last Jan. 13, was slapped with a red card late in the match for excessively arguing with the referee. She will sit out the next game.
“Must-win na lahat ‘tong natitirang games natin para makapasok sa finals,” Estrabon said.
The Golden Booters have a 3-1-5 win-draw-loss slate and sit at fifth spot, while the Lady Booters are at third place with a 2-2-2 card. Hedrix Ar-ar C. Caballe and Carla Patricia S. Perez
