MANILA, Philippines - Ateneo banked on Jarvey Gayoso’s spunk as it carved out a 1-0 victory over Far Eastern University to capture the UAAP Season 79 men’s football crown at the Rizal Memorial Stadium yesterday.
Gayoso rebounded his own miss that was deflected by Tams’ keeper Ray Joyel in the 38th minute and converted it to the marginal goal for the Blue Eagles.
“We deserve this. I’m so happy to win another championship,” said Ateneo coach JP Merida.
In control all-season long, the Eagles annexed their seventh title overall, giving graduating skipper Carlo Liay a fitting send-off.
Liay was also a member of the Eagles who won the Season 75 championship before the Katipunan-based booters went on a four-year spell.
“We really worked hard,” said Liay. “We always have Jarvey ready to score for us and that’s a plus for us.”
Aside from bagging the Best Striker award, Gayoso, the son of former pro Jayvee and grandson of Ateneo football great Ed Ocampo, was named the tournament MVP.
Gayoso, the sophomore striker, scored 12 goals in the season.
“That’s why I always point to the sky. I offer this to my lolo, my mom and my dad,” said Gayoso.