The Benilde Strikers took home silver after collapsing in back-to-back attempts to snatch the Men’s Football Championship from the San Beda University (SBU) Red Booters, 0-1, on Mar. 11 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Despite a heartbreaking loss against the Red Booters on Mar. 8, where the Benilde Strikers had a chance to sweep the tournament and close out San Beda to claim the title, the Taft squad earned another shot at the championship as they were set to rematch their rivals in the finals.
Both teams had championship aspirations in mind, the Taft squad is seeking to reclaim the title they last held in 2017, while the boys from Mendiola look to defend its gold they have held since 2018. The opening half of the finals saw both teams goal-less, as the top seed, Benilde Strikers, played strong defense against attempts by the Red Booters. Relentless attacks were made by the Red Booters but Benilde Goalkeeper, Jan Diola, proved to be an absolute wall, towering the defense of the men in green and white.
The second half was heated as both teams became more physical, displaying their defense, however the Red Booters were able to score a goal as San Beda defender Amir Aningalan was able to nail a goal in point blank range in the 93rd minute of the ball game. The Red Booters capitalized on this conversion, denying the Benilde Strikers their final chance to snatch the championship from them, ending the game, 1-0.
In a post-game interview with The Benildean, Benilde Head Coach Marlon Maro expressed his gratitude stating, “To the Benildean community and the LaSallian brothers, thank you for supporting the team [and] keeping your faith in the team. This is a very new [team]. We have a very good future and do our best to get the trophy next year.”
Coach Maro also mentioned that preparations for the 100th season of the NCAA are on the way for the Benilde Strikers. “After two weeks, we [will] be having our open trials for the incoming frosh. It is very important as it is the centennial tournament. It is a big one.”
The graduating Vitualla siblings, Team Captain John Carlos and Defensive Midfield John Clyde, also shared the same sentiment, thanking Benilde for the support, “Thank you for supporting us, even though we lost, [showing] your support 100%.”
Despite the tough loss, the Benilde Strikers brought home awards, notably securing the silver medal, while Jacee Borja was given the Best Midfielder Award. The Benilde Strikers concluded their campaign with a win-loss record of 4-2, alongside a draw, to place themselves second in the final standings.
