Joshua Macaraig scored the winning goal in the 75th minute to lead University of the East to a 3-2 triumph over Adamson at the start of the UAAP Season 82 Men’s Football Tournament, Thursday night at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The Recto-based school took the lead with two goals early in the match.
That’s when Nikko Palacio struck past Adamson goalkeeper Zacchaeus Suarez after just three minutes of action.
Then, Macaraig rebounded the ball from John Lester Carandang’s missed penalty to double the Red Warriors’ cushion at the 35th minute.
But the Falcons tried to come back when Bryce Rabino struck for Adamson in the 44th minute.
“Well, honestly, hindi ko in-expect na mananalo kami today. Actually yung target lang namin talaga is huwag magpa-goal sa kalaban,” shared Arboleda.
Adamson’s last goal came from Arnulfo Villanueva when he penetrated the defense in the fourth minute of added time.
Earlier, defending champion Ateneo played without Jarvey Gayoso, Julian Roxas, and Jeremiah Rocha, and settled for a 1-all draw in the opener.
Midfielder Nino Herrera stepped up when he converted a spot-kick for Ateneo in the 83rd minute.
“Nakikita ko ‘yung boys na they pushed themselves to give their best sa game na ‘yun,” said Ateneo coach Jaypee Merida.
Rookie winger Francis Tacardon got off with a good debut his heroics in the 56th minute for UP.
Tacardon evaded the tight marking he got from the Ateneo defenders, handing State U the lead following a scoreless first half.