Reverted to his usual striker role early in the second half, Jarvey Gayoso powered the Azkals Development Team to a breakthrough 2-0 win over Mendiola FC last Tuesday in the Philippines Football League at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
Revving up ADT’s attack, national coach Scott Cooper switched Gayoso to his familiar spot and the former Ateneo syar responded brilliantly, scoring the opening goal and also getting involved in the second knocked in by Matthew Custodio.
It was the first victory in three matches for the national team hopefuls who bowed to United City FC and Kaya FC Iloilo in the first two matchdays.
Mendiola goalkeeper Kenry Balobo kept out Marvin Angeles’ penalty in first half stoppage time after coming up with a fine save on Chima Uzoka’s effort earlier.
Looking comfortable in his role up front, Gayoso cashed in on his first real chance firing a header off a pinpoint cross from Dean Ebarle in the 73rd minute. The second goal came in the 81st minute when Custodio pounced on the rebound off Gayoso’s saved free kick.
Pressed and hounded by the relentless pace of the youthful ADT side, Mendiola lost steam in the second half, absorbing its second loss in the competirion.
“Gayoso’s performance as a striker has given me food for thought,” said Cooper. “It is something that we can ponder on moving forward.”
But the British tactician said he remained committed to the big picture of developing his players so that they could step up to the next level “even as we teach them how to win.”
“I was just happy in helping my team win and trust coach Scott in whatever position he thinks is best,” said Gayoso. “But I welcome the chance to be back in old role as a striker.”
Mendiola FC coach Padernal acknowledged that fatigue had set in for his players in the second half, noting the squad’s inactivity for the past seven months and coming off a 0-6 beating from United City FC last weekend.
“Our opponents just ran us ragged. We were tired,” said Padernal.