THE ATENEO Blue Eagles defeated the National University Bulldogs, 3-1 on Sunday, February 28 at the McKinley Hill Stadium in Taguig City.

The Blue and White began the game without their usual starting lineup, as Masyu Yoshioko, Jarvey Gayoso, and JP Oracion all remained on the bench to give way to Carlitos Mathay, Ged Poet, and Ken James. The change seemed to have affected the Blue Eagles after they conceded a goal early on, but the team was able to answer back with three of their own past NU to earn the victory.

In the 29th minute, Julian Roxas was able to get on Mikko Mabanag’s free kick from close to the left corner to equalize the game at 1-all.

In the 57th minute, the Ateneo was able take the lead through another set piece. Towering center back Xavier Alcuaz rose above the crowd and scored a thunderous header from Mabanag’s corner from the left.

Lastly, the Blue Eagles were able to close out the game in the 82nd minute when Lui Clavano was able to snatch possession in NU territory. The striker then played the ball to Ateneo top scorer Gayoso, who made no mistake in creating space for himself and slotting the ball into the right corner to make it 3-1 for the Katipunan-based squad.

This win puts the Blue Eagles at 2-0-3 with a +1 goal difference in the elimination round standings of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 78 Men’s Football tournament.

https://storify.com/TheGUIDONSports/ateneo-downs-nu-3-1