Coming off a commending goalless draw against the undefeated Lady Tamaraws, the Ateneo Lady Booters were again faced with a similar challenge—a date with renowned coach Hans-Peter Smit’s DLSU Lady Green Archers on January 26 at the Ocampo field.
In rejuvenated fashion, the Lady Booters capitalized on the onset, boasting a newfound attacking bannered by mainstays Monica Santos, Lydia Stroud-Lusk, Cess Trinidad, Erika Casas, and rookie Milka Romero.
The Ateneo frontline showcased an offensive fluency yet to be seen in the UAAP season 73 Football Championship, as they effectively utilized their flanks to cross dangerous balls into the striking zone.
However, the Lady Archers’ solid defensive tandem of rookie Niky Scott and reigning UAAP Best Defender Anna Frumenti prevented the Lady Blue Booters from converting any goals.
The Lady Archers’ pristine ball movement and speedy frontline also posed a threat to the Blue and White, but the defensive efforts of Yvette Gaston and Maan Cadayona ensured that the ball was kept on Lady Archer territory for the majority of the first half.
The Lady Booters’ best offensive showing came from Casas’ cross from right field, which set up Stoud-Lusk for a seemingly unstoppable strike. Unfortunately, Stoud-Lusk’s drive hit the cross bar and was cleared into safety.
The momentum of the first half carried on the second with the Lady Archers intensifying the offensive pressure.
Despite Gely Tiu’s consistent goalkeeping throughout the tournament, the Lady Archers got a goal from a scramble off Tiu’s deflected save, which was eventually tapped into the goal.
The Lady Booters were unable to come out from the 1-0 slump, giving the Lady Archers the win that extended their undefeated streak.
“We have a mentality when the other team scores that we kind of just head down instead of head up and continue trying,” stated Stoud-Lusk of the Lady Booters’ effort, “Sayang lang”.
The Ateneo Lady Blue Booters continue the conquest for their first win against the UP Lady Fighting Maroons on January 30, 3 PM at the Ocampo field, in the Ateneo De Manila University.
