By Fibby Ann Mercado

Now at the second spot in the Final Four, Selwyn Mamon’s late goal sealed the win for the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraw Booters against De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers, 1-0, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 men’s football tournament earlier tonight, January 18, at the University of the Philippines Diliman Football Pitch in Quezon City.

Tamaraw Booter Karl Absalon started hot on offense, almost granting the green-and-gold squad early points until the 15-minute mark.

In the 32nd minute, Mamon showcased his pace as he effortlessly carried the ball from one end of the pitch to the other, but was eventually halted by DLSU goalie Jason Salavante. 

The first half ended with the Morayta-based squad struggling to convert chances, keeping the scoreline at 0-0.

Off the half time break, both teams were still scrambling for a goal, yet FEU kept a compact defense. 

It was not until the 76th minute that Mamon found an opening in the goal box, subtly scoring the Tamaraws’ first point.

With 10 minutes of added time, the Morayta-based team maintained tight defense to run down the clock and claim the win. 

In a post-game interview with FEU Advocate, Mamon explained how momentum eventually came their way after multiple attempts in the first half.

“Nung first half kasi, sobrang wala ‘yung laro sa amin, parang nag-a-adjust pa kami. Tapos sa second half, late pa rin nag-adjust. Nabago naman ‘yung laro nung pumasok [‘yung] ibang substitutes (During the first half, we were really off our game, like we were still adjusting. Then in the second half, we still adjusted late. The game changed, though, when some of the other substitutes came in),” he said.

He also emphasized how the win boosted the team’s morale and strengthened their goals. 

"Makakatulong talaga 'to sa amin, kasi tina-target namin na maging top two sa race para makakuha ng puwesto doon sa Final Four (This will really help us, because our goal is to be in the top two in the race so we can secure a spot in the Final Four),” he added.

With a 6-2-2 win-draw-loss record, the Tamaraw Booters look to resume their streak against Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday, January 25, at the same venue.

(Photo by James Neil Tamayo/FEU Advocate)