Action between La Salle and FEU in the UAAP Season 87 women's football tournament, November 30, 2024 at the UP Diliman Football Field. UAAP MediaMANILA -- Defending champion Far Eastern University eked out a 1-0 triumph against De La Salle University in a tense preview of the UAAP Season 87 women's football tournament final on Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Field.
Chenny Dañoso committed a crucial error in the 57th minute that led to an own goal, giving the Lady Tamaraws a lead that they would not relinquish.
With the win, FEU extended its lead atop the standings to 19 points, five points ahead of the Lady Booters, with a +14 goal difference.
However, FEU head coach Let Dimzon was blunt in her assessment of the match afterward.
"This game was not a good game," she said. "I think nape-pressure sila kasi they are thinking about playing against La Salle [in] the finals."
"Ayun 'yung nagiging problema namin -- they cannot handle the pressure," she added. "Then also, hindi ko nakita 'yung play namin, 'yung system namin."
Dimzon immediately huddled her players after the final whistle, and said she told her players just to enjoy as it was a non-bearing game.
FEU showed early intent when Marinelle Cristobal attempted a free kick in the 23rd minute, only for La Salle goalkeeper Jessica Pido to clear the ball swiftly.
La Salle also had its moments, with defender Maye Mendaño taking a free kick in the first half that sailed over the goal. She came close again in the 81st minute, forcing a crucial save from Lady Tamaraws goalkeeper Jessa Lehayan.
Both teams will wrap up their second-round eliminations on December 7. FEU is set to face Ateneo de Manila University at 4 p.m., while La Salle will look to bounce back against the University of the Philippines at 6:30 p.m.