IT WAS an extraordinary shot from outside the six-yard box that gave the Ateneo Blue Booters their second straight loss of the season on Wednesday, January 19, against the UP Maroons.

Despite the loss however, the Blue Booters played far better than their 5-1 thrashing against La Salle last Sunday, January 16. They showed signs of life against the Diliman squad—a top favorite this season.

The first half highlighted the physical match up between the two squads from Katipunan. Shoves were exchanged and players from both teams were sent tumbling on the slick and muddy Erenchun field due to the rain showers before and during the game. UP was awarded three free kicks as a result of three hard fouls by Blue Booters Jacobo Lorenzo and Mario Marcelo.

Ateneo’s defense was present as the Blue Booters were able to withstand offensive pressures by UP’s wings. The first free kick was the Maroons only legitimate attempt in scoring. Two other attempts in scoring were denied by Ateneo keeper, Joel Faustino.  UP’s midfield dominance limited Ateneo to only three attacking possessions.

While retaining a 4-2-3-1 formation, the Ateneo coaching staff decided to play Lorenzo on top as center-forward striker while playmaker Anton Amistoso was moved to the wing.  At the end of the first 45 minutes of the game, the scoreboard was still 0-0.

It was five minutes into the second half when UP broke the deadlock. The goal was not a result of any major errors by the Blue Booters but a moment of brilliance from UP. The high arching long shot seemingly hit the crossbar but somehow chipped right into the net, fooling Ateneo’s Faustino.

The Blue Booters had a chance to tie the game when Amistoso broke free on the left wing and pinpointed a pass to veteran Gab Siojo, but Siojo slid right in front of the goal and was thus unable to finish a potential equalizer.

All throughout the game, Ateneo Head Coach Ompong Merida barked out offensive plays and instructions. Although the defense was relatively solid, offensively the Blue Booters had difficulty getting into attacking positions.

The Blue Booters’ next match is against FEU on Sunday, January 23, 1pm at Erenchun Field.