BANTAY, Ilocos Sur—Kier Napolitano proved a thorn in the side of his former team as National Capital Region beat Soccsksargen, 1-0, to win the Palarong Pambansa secondary boys football gold at the President Elpidio Quirino Stadium.
The 18-year-old Napolitano, who played last year for Soccsksargen and recruited by National University, scored the lone goal and was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament.
Napolitano said his heart will remain with Soccksargen even though he played his last Palaro with NCR. He even exchanged big hugs with former teammates before the match.
“Matagal ’yung pinagsamahan namin. Brothers,” said Napolitano, who previously studied at M’lang National High School in M’lang, Cotabato.
“Support ako sa kanila kahit ano mangyari. Kinakausap ko sila nung nasa field sabi ko, laban lang ng laban.”
“Sabi nila sa akin, sa lahat ng kasama mo, ikaw pa naka-score,” said Napolitano in jest.
Napolitano said he is very proud of his former team having reached the gold medal match in the Palaro.
“Hindi ko nakuha ‘yung panalo sa Soccksargen, NCR lang. Pero proud ako sa kanila kasi nakarating sila sa ganitong level, sa finals,” said Napolitano.
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