Adamson's Roberto Roldan celebrates after scoring against UE in the UAAP Season 87 men's football tournament, December 1, 2024 at the UP Diliman Football Field. UAAP MediaMANILA -- Roberto Roldan scored twice to lead Adamson University to a 2-1 win against the University of the East in the UAAP Season 87 men's football tournament on Sunday.
The victory at the UP Diliman Football Field gave the Soaring Falcons a triumphant end to their campaign.
Roldan opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on a well-placed header off an assist from Dexter Casing. The rookie striker doubled his tally in the 61st minute, finding the back of the net for his second goal of the season.
"I always like to give credit to the players. I can only make promises, but they have to back me up," said Adamson head coach Darlton Digha. "It was a very good fight. They played together as a team, very compact, attacking together with good mentality as well."
Adamson capped its campaign with a morale-boosting third win, still at last place in the seven-team field.
Among Adamson's highlights of the season was the end of their five-game losing streak in the second round a 2-1 win over UST, the first victory since posting a 1-0 triumph over the Golden Booters on April 14, 2019.
Digha's determination to end the Soaring Falcons' season on a high note was evident, particularly for his graduating Falcons—Omar Sabaulan, Ivan Francisco, Dexter Casing, and Edwin Doctora—who leave the team with unforgettable memories.
"I want them to stay if they can because it's been a roller coaster with them," Digha added. "We've gone through tough times together, and now we've won some games. These are memories we'll cherish."
The Red Warriors briefly equalized in the 34th minute when John Sumanoy set up Jam Mariveles for a well-executed goal.
However, UE struggled to maintain control in the second half, as Adamson's defense stood firm, preventing any further scoring opportunities.
UE finished its season with nine points and a -14 goal difference, placing them sixth in the standings.