QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The UP Fighting Maroons failed to defend their title after falling to the DLSU Green Archers, 1-2, in the semifinals of the 81st UAAP men's football at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Thursday.
The Taft-based squad engaged the defending champions in a tightly contested match.
Jovan Marfiga was the first to strike for the Green and White as he scored on a header off a free kick after UP's Ray Sanciangco was called for a yellow card in the 20th minute.
UP skipper Kintaro Miyagi was able to draw one back for Diliman-based booters before the first half whistle.
It was at a 1-1 deadlock after the first forty-five minutes.
After the break, both squads were able to snag good chances at goal.
UP had more than a few chances to get the lead.
But it was DLSU rookie Shanden Vergara who broke the tie in the 77th minute as the UP keeper left his post towards Vergara.
The Taft-based booter was left a clear view of goal.
Despite UP working for a miracle late in the match, La Salle's defense was able to keep them at bay and deny them entry to the Finals.
DLSU heads into the finals and awaits the victor of the Ateneo-FEU matchup.