MANILA — University of the Philippines won the last silverware on the line in the 80th season of the UAAP at the expense of the University of Santo Tomas with a 1-0 victory in the men’s football championship match right on the final day of the season on Thursday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Ian Clariño’s bomb in the 21st minute proved to be the difference as the Fighting Maroons reclaimed the title.
Clariño got a piece of Jeremiah Borlongan’s free kick and volleyed the ball past the keeper for the lone goal of the match.
The win sealed an unbeaten season for UP.
Clariño’s game-winner also sealed his fate as the season’s Most Valuable Player. He also won the best defender award.
Despite conceding the goal, Zaldy Abraham put up huge saves against UP’s succeeding attacks, as he eventually went home with the best goalkeeper award.
Fidel Tacardon gave the Maroons more reasons to celebrate as he walked away with the Rookie of the Year award.
La Salle’s Darius Diamante took home the best midfielder award, while Ateneo’s Jarvey Gayoso was named the best striker with 15 goals made all season long. (Ivan Stewart Saldajeno/PNA)
