CEBU, Philippines – Paref-Springdale played with confidence en route to a 1-0 victory over University of Southern Philippines Foundation to claim the boys under-18 title of the 17th Aboitiz Football Cup last night at the Cebu City Sports Center.
The kicking Panthers fielded their prized player, Lawrence "Soysoy" Colina who is now with the National University, but the Titans were ready for him.
"I told them na di magsalig na napildi namo sila (USPF) during the elimination and that they have to work harder especially SoySoy is playing for the other team already and they also have other good players," said Paref-Springdale coach Mario Ceniza.
True enough, Paref-Springdale needed to go extra mile.
It was a tight match in the first half, as USPF's goal keeper gave Paref-Springdale a headache in offense, blocking several goal attempts.
But Paref-Springdale broke USPF’s defense in the second half with Mark Nacional’s winning goal in the 87th minute.
Nacional's effort paid off well as he was also named the Most Valuable Player as teammate Sabin Veloso got the best striker award, while Enzo Ceniza was the best midfielder.
USPF's Benedict Saligan was the hands down choice for the best goal keeper award while teammate Ivan Ouano was the best defender.
Earlier, Don Bosco Technology Center ended third after posting a thrilling 4-2 win against Leylam FC. (FREEMAN)