(photo c/o UAAP Media Bureau)
DLSU’s road to redemption started strong, as the Lady Booters shut out UST with a 2-0 victory in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament opener at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
After a tumultuous season that saw the traditional UAAP power sink to the bottom of the standings with a 1 win, 4 draws, and 5 losses, these hungry Lady Booters are dead set on redeeming their contender status.
Arantxa Trebol, making her comeback after an ACL injury that sidelined her for Season 86, and rookie Maria Tanjangco found the back of the net, but it was veteran forward and national team standout Shai Del Campo who orchestrated both crucial moments for La Salle.
Trebol broke the deadlock just before halftime, capitalizing on a rebound from Del Campo’s attempt, initially saved by UST goalkeeper Lizlie Garcia. It was a triumphant return for Trebol, showcasing her resilience and determination after a year away from the pitch.
In the 66th minute, Tanjangco, a rising star with experience at Kaya FC, sealed the win with a composed finish off another brilliant setup by Del Campo. La Salle coach Alvin Ocampo praised the rookie’s impactful debut, saying, “It’s a huge confidence booster for her. Scoring in your first game is special, and she delivered when we needed it most.”
Ocampo also acknowledged Trebol’s hunger to contribute after her long recovery. “We still have to manage her minutes, but she was ready to step up with the team today,” he added.
Despite a weather delay that suspended play for 30 minutes due to heavy rain, La Salle remained focused, adjusting to the challenging conditions on the waterlogged pitch. “The weather made the ball unpredictable, but these are the things we need to adapt to,” Ocampo said. “It’s only the first game, and we’re already learning how to overcome adversity.”
UST initially held firm in the first half, frustrating La Salle with a tight defensive setup.
However, their resolve wavered during set-piece situations, allowing the Lady Booters to capitalize. Under new head coach Marjo Allado, UST will have a month to regroup before taking on defending champions FEU on October 19.
Next up, La Salle faces UP next Saturday at 6:30 p.m., aiming to build on this early momentum as they continue their march toward the top.
The road to redemption may have just begun, and the road may still be long and winding. But a win against another powerhouse team is one positive step forward.
Animo La Salle!
