ERCO, Don Bosco keep on shining in Thirsty tilt

CEBU, Philippines – Team ERCO BRO Nationals and Don Bosco Technology Center added feathers on their cap after dominating another class in the 12th Thirsty Football Cup at the Cebu City Sports Center.

After snaring men's 38-above crown, ERCO BRO-B lorded it over in the boys 23 division after defeating Pocket Monsters, 1-0, in their championship battle.

On the other hand, Don Bosco got its third title at the expense of Higala FC, 3-1, in the boys 15 category, thanks to the efforts of Kyle Ronquillo. The Bosconians earlier grabbed the mixed under-7 and under-9 crowns.

Bright Academy-A also rose to the occasion by beating Cagayan de Oro's Rosevale School, 1-0, to claim the champion's trophy in the boys 13 age group. Ritchel Gerasmio sank the game-winning goal for Bright.

Unlike most of the other winners, Bright Academy-A was only second in group 3 at the end of the elimination round. However, they managed to bounce back though the knockout stage against the University of San Carlos B, 3-0, then outsmarted the Football Kings in the quarterfinals, 2-1.

In the semis, Bright Academy-A broke the hearts of Giuseppe FC, 1-0, to set up a title showdown with Rosevale School, which ousted Barili FC, 1-0.

Xavier School of Manila, meanwhile, became the first out-of-town team to win a title in this Cebu Football Association-sanctioned event through the mixed 11 division.

Xavier dumped fellow out-of-town entry in San Carlos City, 2-0, in their final match, with Laurence Tortona claiming the MVP honors.

San Roque FC also made its presence felt by clinching the first ever women's under-23 tiara after crushing Iloilo's Santa Barbara FC, 2-0.

Christine Mantos was named as the best player in the said class. (FREEMAN)