By Kevin Estrada
TAGUIG CITY — Both Green Archers United and Mendiola are bent on making a statement as they open the Philippine Premier League tomorrow.
The two sides are marking their much-awaited return to the big league, especially to the Lasallian outfit whose much-publicized absence in the Philippines Football League in the past two years gained headlines, as they entered the new league as the WFL Elite titlists.
Dolfo Alicante respects their Bedan counterparts, who like them have retooled their side to brace for their challenge in the seven-club league.
“Mendiola has experienced players and young players. Alam namin na malakas ang team nila,” said the former FEU boss.
Apart from their core that won them the WFL Elite, Tating Pasilan expects to lead the line for GAU, which had Marvin Angeles, Paolo Bugas and RJ Joyel among others as their new signings.
“Excited kami ipakita Ang level namin,” Pasilan exclaimed, with the club’s longest serving player finally got his chance to play in the top flight after a three-year wait.
On the other hand, Dan Padernal was glad that the rich history of San Beda football will continue with his new club.
“Sa Mendiola and as a Bedan, napakasaya namin na nagjoin kami sa PPL. Kasi there’s already a goal for young players from San Beda, that is the priority,” said former Red Booter whose side had the core not just from their alma mater, but also to nearby Arellano and St. Benilde.
Mendiola captain Aaron Altiche hopes not just for his side, but also for the best of the new league: “We will do our best. We have had two months of training. We will play for the league itself and not just the club.”
