Early goals lead La Salle past NU for second win

After misfiring in their last game against the University of the East Red Warriors, the De La Salle University Men’s Football Team redeemed themselves with a 2-0 win over the National University Bulldogs, Sunday afternoon at the Far Eastern University-Diliman turf.

The result was the second victory for La Salle in the UAAP Season 81 Men’s Football Tournament, and it helped the team get back on track on the road to the Final Four.

Mateo Alegre eluded the Bulldogs backline to break the deadlock in the first minute of the game. Mikio Umilin then doubled the Taft school’s advantage with a fantastic free kick at the 31st minute.

However, a late incident threatened to spoil the game for La Salle. Substitute striker Mohammad Adil Almohijili was brought down in the NU box deep in stoppage time, but the referee opted not to point to the spot for a penalty.

Almohijili was stretchered out to much delay, which enraged coach Alvin Ocampo.

“Concern ko lang talaga (na) two games already, two fouls inside the box. Hindi tinawag eh. Tama naman yung situation eh. Either (the referee) calls it as a simulation (and then) yellow card yung player or a foul,” said Ocampo.

“Papatayuin mo kung injured yung bata? We have to protect the players. Yes, they are judgement calls but you have to protect the players,” added the former national team star.

Ocampo’s wards now have 6 points after two wins and as much losses after four games.

Up next for La Salle is a date against the defending champions University of the Philippines in March 7, 2019, 9:00 AM in FEU-Diliman

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