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UAAP Football Roundup: Adamson shocks La Salle; Ateneo and UP keep on winning

Adamson caused a massive shockwave to the UAAP Football community, with the rookie's second-half header condemn La Salle to its second straight setback. (file photo)
By Earl Averilla

QUEZON CITY -- It was a memorable day for UAAP LXXIX football as surprise package Adamson, high-flyers Ateneo, and no-nonsense UP came out as winners here today in FEU-Diliman pitch which serves as the home for today's fixtures, with the Rizal Memorial being prepared for the AFC Cup match of Global in two days' time.

In the first game, the Falcons came out as shock winners against perennial powerhouse La Salle as a 57th minute header by freshmen Ejike Ugwoke from a counter attack proved to be enough to beat the Taft-based squad.

Despite efforts by the Green Archers to produce an equalizer, the booters from San Marcelino were able to hold on to the lead and notch a historic win against their much highly-rated adversary.

In the second game, Ateneo came out with a stellar first-half attacking display to produce a 3 -1 result against an out of luck UE side. 

A defensive error by the Red Warriors in dealing with a Jordan Jarvis cross provided Enzo Ceniza with the opportunity to tuck a goal in the 16th minute. 

What followed was arguably one of the best goals in UAAP football as a deflected pass by Jarvey Gayoso from a stellar run down the left flank produced a lob towards an awaiting Sam Lim, who with great timing and anticipation, scored with an acrobatic bicycle kick at the half-hour mark.  

And seven minutes later the Blue Eagles made it 3-0, courtesy of a header by Jarvis from an another Gayoso cross to settle the match.. 

A series of substitutions by Ateneo in the 2nd half somehow disrupted their offensive flow which UE was able to take advantage by pulling back one thru Khrysler Opeña which will serve as their consolation with Ateneo remained unbeaten for the fifth match on the spin, taking another three points in the process

For the final fixture of the day, defending champs UP was able to win against UST in a rematch of last season's first semifinal.

A lone Marco Casambre strike in the 14th minute from a scramble inside the box separates the duel between the top public and Catholic schools.

This is then followed by a scrappy affair as both sides were presented with great chances but they weren’t able to convert them. Most of the opportunities came in the form of headers via crosses from the flanks for for the fighting Maroons while the Growling Tigers via free-kicks and corners. 

However, most were skied over the bar. UP’s domination of the midfield and their defensive strength proved to be enough tough to keep their narrow advantage until the final whistle, 1-0.

Follow him on Twitter: @earlaverilla