31/01/2026
Libonians kicked out Spotless Jewels, 2-1
-Stephen Bill Llagas
Running with might and goaling with pride, the Libona National High School (LNHS) Football Club captured the championship title in the Division Home and Away Women's Soccer Game after outscoring the Spotless Jewels of Manolo Fortich, 2โ1, at the Del Monte Soccer Field in Camp Philips, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, January 31, 2025.
The match showed how prepared Libona was. From the opening minutes, the team played with confidence and discipline, moving the ball well and keeping their formation intact. Team Captain Zyra Estorgio took charge of the game, organizing the field and creating plays that allowed Libonians to control the tempo.
Libona dominated the first half, making the most of their chances. Their teamwork paid off as they scored two goals before halftime, giving them a strong lead. Magmia Uriel Dacayo delivered the crucial goals, finishing the plays set up by her teammates and putting Manolo under pressure early in the match.
In the second half, the Spotless Jewels of Manolo responded with more intensity, led by their key player Majella Partron. The home team pushed forward and tested the Libonians' defense as the match entered its final minutes. Their efforts resulted in a late goal, cutting the lead to 2โ1 and bringing tension to the closing moments of the game.
Despite the late setback, Libona stayed calm and focused. The team showed discipline on defense and continued to support one another on the field, refusing to let the momentum slip away, managing to keep their lead until the last second drops.
As the final whistle blew, the players and coaches hugged each other in celebration, proud of their hard work and dedication, sweat, tears, and cheers mixing up under the golden rays of the sun. It was indeed a hard fought battle by the two teams but it was still the Libonians' luck and skills that sealed the deal.
Head Coach Jine Melody Parista, together with trainers Eman Tuston, Adriel Algodon, and Junley Tuston, credited the victory to the teamโs consistent training and strong unity. Saying "through practice and unity, it leads is to success".
With the win, Libona National High School was crowned champion of the division and officially qualified for the Regional Level, representing Bukidnon.
