BACOLOD—Charles Barberan wasn’t high on Negros Occidental coach John Carmona’s list of penalty-kick takers. But the left winger did not hesitate picking up the ball and placing it on the spot as soon as his team was awarded an early penalty.
“He looked ready to take responsibility, so we let him take the penalty,” said Carmona. “When you see a player who isn’t afraid to make big decisions for the team, you just have to trust the player.”
After Negros’ Nigerian striker Eli Usman was brought down inside the box in the 15th minute, the 18-year-old Barberan repaid the trust with a well-struck effort to the top corner, lifting the Negrenses to a 1-0 victory over Cavite and into the finals of the PFF Smart Under-22 Amateur Football Championship at Panaad Stadium here.
The hosts will face either Davao or Misamis Occidental in the finals at 3 p.m. on Sunday.
“We dominated the game and dictated the flow, so I’m happy with that,” said Carmona.
“But we have to get better in finishing off our chances. We’re fortunate Cavite wasn’t able to capitalize with their chances.”
Cavite, whose core is made up of NCAA champion Arellano University, opted on a more cautious approach, absorbing pressure before putting players forward.
One counterattack in the opening half almost led to the equalizer but Charles Gamutan, who scored for Arellano in the NCAA finals against San Beda, sent his effort wide.