THE Xavier University (XU) lady booters of rookie coach Rojie Sicat performed impressively in the Mindanao Peace Games women’s football tourney, but luck was not on their side after settling for third in the six-team competition held at the Caraga State University pitch in Butuan City.
The XU Ladies banked on the two goals of veteran Saira Comie and another one from Maica Alon to defeat La Salle University-Ozamiz City 3-0 to capture the third place trophy.
They were strong contenders for the crown after topping their group with one win and one draw in the elims. However, a disastrous 1-2 loss to Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) in the semis ended their hopes of winning the championship trophy.
Coach Bombet Rosales of FSUU in Butuan City claimed the title after beating Ateneo de Davao, 1-0 in the championship round.
FSUU was second in their group with Ateneo de Davao on top. La Salle Ozamiz was second in group A and met Ateneo de Davao in the semis. Two other school teams, Ateneo de Zamboanga and Datu Ibraham Paglas failed to qualify to the semis.
Despite of failing to win the title, it was an impressive performance of rookie coach Rojie Sicat and her rookie laden squad captained by senior player Desiree Mae Castro.