The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Blazing Strikers secured back-to-back silver crowns in the NCAA Season 100 Football Tournament on April 26 at the University of Makati (UMak) Football Field in Makati City.
The Taft Squad made a grand entrance into the landmark season, with Benilde’s Byron Abela smashing a goal in the opening minute. The Mapua University (MU) Booters hit back at the 9-minute mark, levelling the score, but Abela broke through their defense again, with John Carlos Vitualla sealing the deal for their first game in the season, 3-1.
The men in green and white hit a rough patch in the green, settling for a stalemate with the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals and a crushing 0-4 loss from the defending champions, San Beda University (SBU) Red Booters.
The Blazing Strikers bounced back, driving a 9-0 win against the University of Perpetual Help System-Dalta (UPHSD) Altas. Frank Semilla, Josh Asignar, Charles Unabia, and Nathan Oquindo overpowered the Las Piñas Squad to secure a semis appearance.
Donning the green and white, the squad once again clashed with Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals in a high-stakes rematch. Greg Naquines was able to drive home a goal early at the 7th minute, igniting momentum for Abela, who capitalized on all openings, netting goals in the 11th and 73rd minute mark that widened the lead. Although the Generals managed to secure a consolation goal deep in stoppage time (90+3’), it was not enough to falter the Blazing Strikers, who were eager to avenge their Season 98 finals loss, 3-1.
As the Blazing Strikers once again stepped into the lion’s den in a highly anticipated championship rematch. Clad in their green and white jerseys, the Taft Squad jousted fiercely against the reigning kings of the pitch.
However, an early goal in the second half by San Beda’s Amir Aningalan pierced their defense, leaving a dent in their title hopes. Despite multiple attempts to tame the Red Lions, the Blazing Strikers knelt down with a heartbreaking 0-1 defeat.
Despite the tough team loss, individual brilliance was noticed as Semilla took home the Freshman of the Year award, while Asignar claimed the Best Striker title.
