CEBU, Philippines - KTEC Trading completed its unbeaten run with a 2-0 victory via penalty shootout over the unheralded San Roque-Nawanao to snatch the men's open title of the 9th Thirsty Cup football tournament yesterday at the University of San Carlos- Technological Center (USC-TC) field in Brgy. Talamban, this city.
Although KTEC Trading of Frederick Alazas was heavily favored, the San Roque booters put up one big fight to forge a scoreless draw at the end of the regulation period.
During the shootout, the ever-reliable penalty kicker Jake Acre lived up to expectations by drilling in the first goal for KTEC Trading.
KTEC's second kicker Peter Dionela also hit his target with utmost precision to the delight of his teammates and their legion of fans.
KTEC's goalie Henderson Jay Campo also deserved a hearty pat on his back for deflecting San Roque's attempts.
Despite the defeat, San Roque-Nawanao could still hold their heads up high as their entry into the championship in the premiere division was unexpected.
Beating the coach Glen Ramos-led ERCO Team B, one of the strongest title contenders in the men's open category via a 3-2 verdict, was already a huge accomplishment for San Roque-Nawanao.
Ramos though still has something to be happy about as he powered his other teams to a double championship in the men's 36 and 42 classes. Not only that, he also bagged the MVP honors in both divisions.
The rest of the MVP awardees were University of San Carlos’ Ethan Decena in the boys 17, Angeli Ruete in the girls 19, Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu’s Sarah Nicole Tika in girls 17, San Roque Football Club’s Patricia Angala in girls 14, Cebu International School’s Liam Sacal in players 10, Barili FC’s Jedi Alquisola in players 8, Earl John Cacho of Olles FC in players 6, Dan Villarico of Abellana National School-Pomeroy in boys 19 and Little Azkals' Javier Romero-Salas in boys 14. (FREEMAN)