Fresh from a pressured draw against the defending champion, San Beda College (SBC), the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Strikers won against the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Pirates in the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 91 with a 3-1 score, on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Football Field, Manila.

Both teams pressed early in the opening quarter, but it was the Blazers who drew first blood, converting on the 30-minute mark, after six close chances on the Pirates net. The first half concluded with a narrow deficit, 1- nil favoring Benilde.

The opposing teams became more physical entering the second half. Mid through the second half, the Blazers puts the final nail on the coffin, courtesy of team captain Eddie Velizano. The Pirates’ relentlessness lead to a consolation goal, but the taft-based squad remained composed, winning the game with a commanding 3-1 scoreline.

“ I knew the game was finished.” shared Blazers head coach, Marlon Maro, “Before the game started, we knew that we will win [against LPU].” He also claimed that the Pirates are the weakest among the competing teams in the roster.

The Blazers now rank third on the standings, San Beda and Arellano lead the rankings at first and second place respectively. A match againsts the Red Lions will be the first meal served for the Blazers on the second round of the NCAA Men’s Football tournament. “If we beat San Beda then for sure, we are on the finals. And if we make it to the finals, then is it for sure that we will be the champion.” claims Coach Maro.

Written by Nicole Ganglani and Aya Garcia

Photos by Aya Garcia