Davao sets final duel vs Negros

BACOLOD CITY—Davao City striker Warren Ravanes wasn’t even on the pitch in the quarterfinals.

But with four goals in the 5-2 victory over Misamis Occidental in the semifinals last Friday, the 19-year-old could be the top option up front when Davao shoots for an upset against host Negros Occidental in the finals of the PFF Smart Under-22 Championship today at Panaad Stadium.

The Davaoeños kept their fiery form, overwhelming a Misamis side that also showed good play on attack but couldn’t sort out its defense.

James Enegente accounted for the other goal as the Davaoeños followed up their 10-0 beating of Camarines Norte in the quarterfinaks with another strong performance. 

“He (Ravanes) was very motivated and wanted to prove something maybe because he was rested in the quarterfinals,” said Davao coach Ramonito Carreon. “What’s important is we got the win and a chance of winning the title.”

The title match is slated at 3 p.m. today. The Negrenses earlier clinched the first finals seat with a 1-0 victory over Cavite last Friday.  

“It’s going to be tough [against Negros],” said Carreon.  “They have big and strong players and they will have the crowd behind them. But we also have a system that we trust and we hope it will work in the finals.”