Far Eastern University capped off their season by clinching the PFF Women’s Cup 2022 after a 2-0 win over the University of the Philippines in the final match last Saturday 17 December 2022 at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
It was a fitting season for FEU, which dominated the standings at the start of the season, but saw them slip to third place heading in to the knockout stages, where they dispatched Tuloy FC enroute to the championship win over UP.
“We prepared for the direction of this team before the start of the tournament,” said winning coach Marnelli Dimzon. “I saw the team’s potential in this tournament, their hard work, dedication to the game, and that they put in their 100% every time they stepped in to the pitch.”
Lylhanie Cayabyab pounced on an errant pass by UP’s Jennifer Baroin to slot home the opening goal in the 17th minute. The defender first timed her shot as the ball went its way to her path for the opener.
UP tried to answer back in the 21st minute, but Munich Muring skied her long ranged effort.
Sarahgen Tulabing went close from the corner in the 26th minute, but could only muster an effort towards the side netting. The same occurred for Cayabyab two minutes later but her shot sailed wide.
FEU was keen on extending their lead, but could not add a second goal for the rest of the match. The same could be said for UP, but they also rued their chances in front of goal.
With minutes left in the match, UP also had to finish with ten players after Alyssa Ube was sent off after a high boot to an FEU player which allowed the Tamaraws to clinch the title from the set piece.
Lyka Cuenco headed it in to an open goal following a mad scramble in the box from the free kick to put FEU 2-0 up and wrest the PFF Women’s Cup.
“We pushed ourselves throughout the competition,” said Cuenco, who was named player of the match. “We expected UP to come out strong that’s why we had to work harder for the win.”
The curtain raiser saw Kaya FC-Iloilo edge Tuloy FC, 1-0, to claim the third place award. Sheen Ramores’ 83rd minute winner was the difference between the two sides.
FEU skipper Dionesa Tolentin was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Kaya FC-Iloilo Shelah Cadag was named top goalscorer, UP’s Frances Acelo and Jennifer Baroin were awarded the best goalkeeper and best defender plum respectively, while Kaya’s Charisa Lemoran was the best midfielder.
The awards were presented by PFF general secretary Atty. Edwin B. Gastanes and the Hon. Senator Pia Cayetano.