NU nips UST to strong first round finish in UAAP football

National University capped its impressive UAAP Season 79 men’s football first round campaign with a 1-0 victory over University of Santo Tomas Thursday at the Moro Lorenzo Field.

Mike Arbela, receiving the ball from Elmer Sampaga, scored the lone goal of the match in the 55th minute to lift the Bulldogs to their third straight win.

Later, Far Eastern University foiled Ateneo’s first round sweep bid with a goalless draw.

Despite the standoff, the Blue Eagles remain on top of the table with 19 points, four ahead of the Tamaraws, who now have 15 points for the solo second place.

After a slow start, NU finally showed its character, as it moved up to fourth spot with 10 points.

The Growling Tigers, meanwhile, stayed in fifth place with seven, three off the Bulldogs.

Second round will start on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.