USJ-R captures sixth title

CEBU - The University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) proved steadier in the penalty shootout, edging the University of the Visayas 6-5 (UV) yesterday, to bag its sixth CESAFI football title.

The match ended at 1-1 after regulation and was still even after the 10-minute extension.

USJ-R booters Joven Torres, Adrienne Mejaran, Floren Luage, Paul dela Victoria and Robert Mamac, all beat UV’s goalie Garry Garciano in the shootout.

UV still had a chance to equalize again but Jomar Labastida was unable to kick past USJ-R’s goalie Ralp Patrick Gaite who easily caught the shot.

UV scored first during regulation after Julius Arce breached USJ-R defenses to find the net in the 21st minute. USJ-R tried to equalize but their offense was sputtering and disorganized, they were a goal down after the first half.

USJ-R’s anemic showing drew the ire of Coach Joselito Bono who let his players know of his displeasure during the break.

The scolding fired-up USJ-R.

They played aggressively in the second half and were able to equalize in the 47th minute courtesy of Jun-Jun Pintuan. In the penalty, USJ-R booters showed steely nerves as they all scored to retain the title they won last year and sixth overall.

UV was seeking redemption after missing the tournament last year when CESAFI banned the team from the tournament for fielding ineligible players.

USJ-R and UV last played for the crown in 2005. The two teams drew their first match in the elimination round. Football fans in the city keenly awaited the two teams’ final showdown. 

In the other match, the University of Southern Philippines (USPF) trounced the University of San Carlos (USC) 4-3 in another penalty shootout to bag third place.  (THE FREEMAN)