By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Don Bosco Technical Institute (DBTI)-Elan Vita captured the U19 Governor’s Cup Provincial Championship after defeating STI-West Negros University (STI-WNU), 4-3, in a penalty shootout.

The final match ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation and extra time.

DBTI-Elan Vita took the early lead when Early Caluyo scored seconds after kickoff.

STI-WNU responded with sustained pressure and eventually equalized in the 72nd minute through Luke Apuhan.

Both teams created chances in extra time, but neither side managed to break the deadlock, sending the match to penalties.

During the shootout, DBTI-Elan Vita goalkeeper Andy Salud made two key saves to secure the victory.

Successful penalties for the champions came from Pagador, Canoy, Dela Serna, and Padilla.

STI-WNU converted through Apustolero, Ningasca and Apuhan.

Salud’s performance earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award along with the Best Goalkeeper citation.

DBTI teammate Gian Andre Cañete was named Best Defender.

STI-WNU claimed two individual awards, with Apuhan recognized as Best Striker and John Rhyle Tañaña awarded Best Midfielder.

The Governor’s Cup organizers acknowledged the support of the Negros Occidental provincial government led by Governor Eugenio Lacson, whose office provided resources and assistance in staging the competition.

Victorias City Mayor JunB Bantug and Bago City Mayor Mayette Javellana were also credited for hosting matches and helping ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament.

Officials said the strong cooperation between the provincial and city governments contributed significantly to the successful staging of the event, which highlighted emerging football talent in the province./ASC, WDJ