DBC makes PNG futsal semis

(This is a report submitted by a reader---ML)



The Don Bosco United FC led Team Cebu City team earned a semifinal slot in the futsal competition of the on-going Philippine National Games held at Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. The Bosconians won 2 out of their 3 matches to gain access to the knockout stage against gold medal favorites Philippine National Futsal Team of NCR on Friday. 


DBUFC-TCC won it's first game against Zamboangita FC from Zamboangita, Negros Oriental 13-1 with goals coming from Jan Joseph Genson (3), Noel Villagonzalo (2), Warlo Sabella (2), Avelson Arizabal (2), Mark Atillo (2) and Jonathan Caballero (2).



DBUFC-TCC bowed to Foundation University-Dumaguete City 4-5 after a DBUFC late goal that could have tied the game was disallowed. Genson, Caballero, Villa and Sabella each scored a goal in that defeat.


The team won it's last elimination game against Azukals FC-Dumaguete City 9-5, this time behind the goals of Genson (4), Villa (2), Sabella (2) and Caballero (1).


Futsal is the indoor version of football. It is faster and could be played on a basketball court. Many football aficionados view futsal as a way of introducing the sport to the city barangays all over the country, most of which have covered basketball or multi-purpose courts.


Other players of the team are goalkeeper Julito Estomago Jr. and defender Mark Plando. Due to budget constraints, the club sent just 8 players rather than the full complement of 12 for the 5-a-side competition. Leading them as player-coach is Sabella, who has recently received a call-up to a UFL team.