Arellano University barged into the finals even as defending champion San Beda forged a knockout for the other championship berth after both teams prevailed against semifinal foes Monday night in NCAA men’s football at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
The Chiefs downed the Lyceum Pirates, 3-1, to inch closer to duplicating their title feat two seasons ago.
Arellano rose to the occasion entering the second frame with Charles Gamutan striking in the 46th minute, before Roberto Corsame Jr. followed it up on the 56th minute.
Patrick Bernate scored a 71st-minute goal to break the game open for the Chiefs despite the persistent attempts of the Pirates.
Lyceum, seeded third in the round, avoided a shutout with Levi Manahan striking a goal in the 81st minute.
Meanwhile, San Beda refused to give up despite recent events, shutting out top seed College of St. Benilde, 2-0, to breathe new life into its title-retention campaign.
San Beda, boasting of 21 titles, entered the semis at fourth spot after forfeiting two games for fielding an ineligible player in the eliminations.
The Red Booters and the Blazers fight for the other finals spot at 6 p.m. tonight.
In juniors action, defending titlist San Beda and College of St. Benilde arranged a best-of-three finals after beating their respective rivals.
The Red Cubs clobbered the Letran Squires, 7-1, while the Junior Blazers leaned on Loyd Soco’s two goals for a 2-1 win over the Arellano Junior Chiefs.