By Vince Matthew Jaramilla

Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraw Booters conceded their championship title as they came out scoreless against the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, 0-1, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 men’s football tourney finals held earlier today, May 16, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila City.

Throughout the season, UP was the only team to keep FEU scoreless with their second round match in the eliminations. 

The Morayta-based squad was forced to play passively for most of the first half as the Katipunan-based squad took over most of the possessions.

With tight defense including four crucial saves by FEU goalie Jet Fabrigas, the team fortunately managed to contain UP's aggression to keep the scoreboard at nil-nil entering the second half. 

However, Fighting Maroon Marc Tobias was rewarded a penalty kick early in the second half to try and separate from the Tamaraw Booters. 

Fabrigas was eventually unable to prevent Tobias's strike at the 50th minute to put them down at 0-1 despite his solid performance up to that point.

In hopes of a comeback, the green-and-gold squad raised their physicality up a notch and produced several offensive pushes. 

Unfortunately, the Alberto Besa-led squad remained scoreless until the final whistle, ultimately placing them at a silver podium finish.

In a post-game interview with FEU Advocate, Coach Besa mentioned the lack of fire in the team which led to the loss. 

"Unfortunately, for our boys, they didn't have the fire today. They were making so many errors. It was sad [the fire] didn't come out in the finals. I want to get mad at them but they're already dealing with the loss. I guess that, in it of itself, is a lesson," he said.

In another interview, injured midfielder Marc Alipoon expressed his regret for being unable to be on the field for FEU. 

"Sobrang hinayang din po kasi gusto ko rin po sana tumulong kasi 'yung aking pwesto, 'yun po 'yung hinahanap nila ngayon. Kaya siguro, focus muna kami sa recovery [at] healing namin kasi ngayong season, puro kami injury. Babawiin namin next season (It's really regretful because I wanted to help with the team needing my position. So maybe, we focus first on our recovery and healing because this season, we were riddled with injuries. Next season, we'll bounce back)," he stated. 

In the awarding ceremony, graduating Tamaraw Booter Viejay Frigillano was granted the Best Defender award. 

Joining Frigillano in their graduating years are Eugene Arriola, Sherwin Basindanan, Jermi Darapan, and Martini Rey.

(Photo by Karch Rafael/FEU Advocate)