Stephen Marasigan played a major role once again to lead University of Santo Tomas to a vital 1-0 win over Adamson University in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Football Tournament, Sunday, Mar. 19, at the UP Diliman Football Field.

The Lourdes School of Mandaluyong alumnus scored the match’s lone goal in the 42nd minute of the match to secure all three points for the Golden Booters.

Marasigan’s goal, his third of the season, was the perfect response for UST after back-to-back losses against De La Salle University and University of the East before this match.

“Again yung si Mara, siya nanaman ulit yung nag-save ng team aside from his teammates pero dahil sa kanya nanalo yung UST,” said coach Marjo Allado.

Adamson, though, almost scored the opener as Demnes Nikko Arañas’ attempt from outside the box was denied by the crossbar.

The result meant that UST ended the first round with 7 points behind two wins, one draw, and three defeat. In contrast, Adamson failed to tally a single point after losing six straight matches.

“Siyempre yung panalo ngayon versus Adamson sobrang importante for UST kasi nag-boost ng confidence and at the same time, nagbigay ng three points eh kasi nasa bottom two kami,” added Allado.

“Marami kaming aayusin before mag-start second round kasi if this is the way we play — look at the fitness of the players tapos walang direksyon minsan yung mga pasa — hindi ka makaka-survive sa second round. Hindi ka makaka-qualify sa semifinals.”