NFL 3rd Conference kicks off Sept. 16

By Jerome S. Galunan Jr.


Following the intense finals between eventual champion Trimaxi-Agro and runner-up Real Negrense during the last conference, tougher competitions are expected when the 3rd Conference of the North Football League kicks off tentatively on September 16 at the Ayala North Point pitch.
This was disclosed by tournament commissioner Ramon Janeo. During the last conference, unexpectedly the bottom two in the semis, Trimaxi and Real, ousted tournament leaders Dynamic Builders FC and Ceres FC.
This only proved that as the years go by, teams competing in this tournament also improved and getting tougher and stronger. Thus, making this competition balanced and more exciting.
Just like in the last conference finals when Trimaxi rallied behind Real and eventually won the match with two late goals against the Negrense’s lone goal.
After the scoreless first half, Real’s Winston Valencia got some space at the left flank in the 49th minute as he sent a perfect target down deep the right side of Trimaxi’s keeper and gave Real a 1-nil lead.
However, while Real rejoiced after earning a goal advantage, Trimaxi continued to play harder as they get a couple of corners and free kicks.
During the counter attack, Trimaxi midfielder cruising the right flank was fouled just outside the penalty box and was awarded a free kick. Real established a wall but came out useless as the penalty shot was simply turned to a pass to the cutting Miguel Gonzales, who sent the ball in the 71st minute and put Real’s keeper Bembem Paranpan off-guarded.
With the scoreboard even at one goal apiece, Trimaxi became more eager for another goal as its wards furiously attacked Real’s back four and earned another corner.
But the goal attempt by FJ Serios off Bes dela Noche’s corner kick failed after Real’s goalie secured the ball. However, Real’s counter was disorganized as it sent the ball possession back to Trimaxi. Serios drilled the ball to the left side and passed it to Gonzales, who was taking the baseline. With defense on him, Gonzales passed the ball just in the mouth of the goal.
But Real’s defender was unfortunate to send an own-goal in the 74th minute and gave Trimaxi a goal advantage to seal the match. During the ceremony at 21 Bar Restaurant Sunday evening, winning individual awards were Patrick Martir of Trimaxi as Most Valuable Player, Luis Christian Clauor of Real Negrense – Most Improved Player, Louie Michael Casas of Ceres FC – Best Goalkeeper, Ramon Miguel Gonzales of Trimaxi – Best Defender, Winston Valencia of Real – Best Midfielder, Ali Go of Dynamic – Best Striker. The Fair Play Award was given to Silver Dragon FC./ WDJ