Reporting note: this article draws on tiebreakertimes.com.ph; Score808 Live provides the summary and editorial framing.
Midfield Impact Secures Consecutive Victories for DLSU
De La Salle University midfielder Lara Regarde has delivered a decisive start to the UAAP Season 89 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament, scoring in back-to-back fixtures to keep the Lady Booters undefeated. Regarde found the net in opening matches against the University of the Philippines and archrival Ateneo de Manila University, establishing herself as an essential attacking outlet in La Salle’s pursuit of its first championship since Season 81.
Tactical Adaptation Under New Management
The sophomore midfielder's elevated role coincides with a technical transition on the touchline. Head coach Joyce Landagan stepped in during the offseason to succeed long-time manager Alvin Ocampo, implementing a restructured system emphasizing proactive pressing and sustained possession.
“Before, I didn’t really play the full minutes or contribute to goals, pero now I have the chance to represent what I can do,” Regarde said regarding her expanded responsibilities. “With our coaches po, since bago po sila sa amin, yung wino-work lang po talaga namin is to focus on what we can do for us.”
Player Profile: From Tondo to Taft
Regarde’s development traces back to Tondo, Manila, where she began playing at age six before catching the attention of veteran coach Hans-Peter Smit, who brought her through the De La Salle Zobel pipeline. Now studying Sports Management, Regarde has stepped into full-match duties with heightened offensive efficiency, converting critical chances while DLSU stabilizes its defensive structure under Landagan's instructions.
Key Campaign Metrics
- Current Record: 2 wins in 2 matches played.
- Individual Return: 2 goals across 2 appearances for Lara Regarde.
- Championship Target: First UAAP women's football title since Season 81.
- Tournament Pathway: Eight elimination matches remain before the newly introduced Final Four stage.
Next Fixture
De La Salle University faces National University on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at the UP Diliman Football Stadium. While the Lady Booters enter the fixture as favorites, maintaining defensive focus against an evolving NU side remains critical to protecting their unblemished record at the top of the table.
