CEBU, Philippines - University of Cebu-ERCO-BRO Nationals claimed a berth in the national groupings of the 2014 PFF-Smart National Club Championships with a dominating 5-1 victory over Davao’s University of Mindanao-Tagum FC in the Group D action at the Cebu City Sports Center yesterday.
The Cebu’s bet scored their first goal courtesy of Julius Arce in the 22nd minute, but miscommunication took place between two of their Nigerian players that paved way for UM-Tagum to tie the game in the 34th minute after Temar Morata’s goal.
Although there were still enough time left in the first half, UC-ERCO Bro Nationals played the way UM-Tagum did which forces coach Glenn Ramos to remind his wards to stick to their game plan.
After some adjustments and switching of player’s position, UC-ERCO Bro Nationals made a strong push in the second half. Epifanio Ynot gave UC-ERCO 2-1 lead in the 65th mark while Dan Marnel Villarico gave them a comfortable two goal lead in the 70th minute.
Even with the advantage, UC-ERCO Bro Nationals continued to press on their offense with Rogelio Castillan Jr. and John Roy Melgo III scoring one goal apiece in the 81st and 89th minute, respectively.
UC-ERCO topped group D 2-0 win-loss record, while Laos FC of Leyte ruled group E also with a perfect 2-0 card. Laos FC annihilated Magis FC of Cagayan De Oro, 5-1, in their yesterday’s game.
The national groupings will involve five groups plus three United Football League teams - Global FC, Kaya and Loyola Meralco Sparks.
They will be split into two brackets, with the top two qualifiers slugging it out in the crossover semis. The winners will then fight for the championship and the P200,000 bounty that goes with it on November 9 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Aside from the national title, the winner will also have a chance to represent the country in the next AFC President’s Cup.— Caecent No-ot Magsumbol (FREEMAN)