Manila Digger. -PFF PHOTO
Manila Digger reached the final of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Women’s League after edging out Far Eastern University, 4-3, in a penalty shootout after their rain-soaked semis duel went scoreless at the end of extra time at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Hannah Faith Pachejo converted the go-ahead kick before FEU’s Kyla Marie Doctora couldn’t capitalize on a retake when her attempt rattled the crossbar which sent Digger into the title match despite only its second top-flight competition.
Digger will face the winner of the semifinal affair pitting Kaya-Iloilo and La Salle. Their match is going to be determined at a later date as both teams have some of their players representing the Philippines in the Hangzhou Asian Games.
FEU was relegated to a consolation match for third after its bid to win a third title in the last 10 months was thwarted.
The Lady Tamaraws had won the PFF Women’s Cup last December and the UAAP Season 85 crown in May.
The start of extra time was delayed for an hour as the Rizal pitch was deemed unplayable due to the heavy downpour that began even before the whistle was blown.
Manila Digger converted its first two attempts in the shootout courtesy of Roselle Marie Lecera and Mea Bernal while Janly Fontamillas missed the first try to put FEU at a disadvantage.
Karen Mae Alora’s miss and FEU eventually tied things up at 2-2 with Emma Balacua and top striker Dionesa Tolentin’s converted spots in between the Manila Digger booter’s failed attempt.
Manila’s Princess Caparida and FEU’s Jonella Albino found the back of the net before Pachejo restored the lead back to Digger.
Digger Goalkeeper Ayishatu Simpson stopped Doctora’s shot that appeared to have ended the match, but officials ruled that FEU should have a retake. Doctora, however, shot it high to confirm Manila’s place in the final.