By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negros-based Canberra Buglas Region (CBR) Soccer Society girls’ under-17 team made an impressive showing at the 2nd Corbo Invitational Soccer Cup, reaching the semifinals before bowing out in a tense penalty shootout.

The CBR squad entered the knockout stage undefeated with a perfect 5-0 record but fell to Tanjay City Football Club, 3-1, on penalties after a goalless draw at Ang Tay Golf and Country Club on August 30.

Tanjay FC went on to capture the tournament title against Leon Kilat FC.

Despite challenging weather conditions, including heavy rain and waterlogged patches on the pitch, the Canberra-based players demonstrated strong passing and composure, narrowly missing multiple scoring opportunities as they continue to prepare for next year’s Verano Cup International Soccer Cup.

“This tournament proves that the soccer ball is indeed round,” tournament organizer Coach Andy Mananquil of Football Kings United said.

He added that the event also marked the 17th birthday of Christian Corbo and celebrated Buglas Futbol’s silver medal achievement in the 33rd Kanga Cup in Australia.

Supported by Gardenville United Football Club Inc. and the Filipino Canberra Community, the CBR team was guided by coaches Earl Bona, Ron Molequin, Beatrize Semillano, and Red Yasay, with technical director coach Jiff Lomugdang.

The lineup featured standout young players including Jhayne Elainne Dalogdog, Claudia Elise Montinola, Renee Gavriel Animathea Lomugdang, Shanel Dominique Molequin, Kelsy Skye Anub, Nathalie Rhaine Andres, Yannah Marie Amar, Angel Nicole Segovia, Chloe Belisse Pasana, Hushlee Lhannia de Larrazabal, Marinel Gonzales, Ysabel Anara Yasay, Maxene Dominique Sison, and Lize Ibañez./ASC, WDJ