MANILA, Philippines - Last year’s runner-up Arellano U routed Perpetual Help, 8-0, to gain a share of the lead with St. Benilde in the 90th NCAA football competition at the Rizal Memorial Stadium yesterday.
Striker Roberto Corsame Jr. came through with a hat-trick, including two in the first half when the Chiefs raced to a 5-0 lead en route to 10 match points on three wins and a draw with the Blazers.
“I’m happy with the win because we executed our game plan to perfection, which is to keep on attacking,” said Arellano coach Ravelo Saluria, who also cited the 17-year-old Corsame’s game-long brilliance.
“He’s the consistent scorer of this team and I hope he continues his hard work,” said Saluria.
St. Benilde, meanwhile, slammed Emilio Aguinaldo College, 5-0, to join Arellano at the helm.
The Lions, whose match against the Lyceum Pirates was called off last Monday due to Typhoon Ruby, fell to second with nine points.
The four-peat seeking San Beda, however, could regain the solo lead with a victory over St. Benilde in a crucial duel tomorrow.
Lyceum smashed Mapua, 6-0, in the only other match of the day.