By: Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Ceres-Negros FC squad pulled off a masterful comeback against the future of the Philippine football, the U-22 team, 2-1, in the Copa Paulino Alcantara Cup.
Surprisingly, the youngsters from the national team dictated the pace early on, as they attacked the corners and pushed the action off side crosses to allow them many opportunities in header situations.
Ceres started off slow, seemingly flustered by the youngsters’ discipline in executing their offense.
As the first half drew to a close, Yrik Galantes of the U-22 cruised past the tough and experienced Ceres defenders to cash in a goal and take a surprising 1-0 lead for the national team.
Sensing urgency and with the need to step up their game, team captain Stephan Shrock pumped up his teammates as the whistle was blown and raised his arms.
After that wake-up call, the Ceres squad shifted gears in what would be a dominant second half as they displayed their offensive artillery.
The veteran champion team played physical and out-paced the national team, resulting in two goals while also limiting the opposing side to a scoreless second half.
First, it was Dylan De Bruycker who struck the equalizer, followed by veteran Lopez Mendy who put them in the lead during the 86th minute mark.
