Karl Absalon scored the second goal for FEU in their 3-0 win over Adamson University in the UAAP Season 86 men's football tournament, March 14, 2024 at the UP Football Stadium. UAAP Media

MANILA -- Defending champion Far Eastern University is now on top of the table in the UAAP Season 86 men's football tournament.

The Tamaraws extended their winning streak to four matches after a 3-0 dismantling of Adamson University, Thursday night at the UP Football Stadium.

It was an impressive result for the Tamaraws, who were playing without some key contributors. Martini Rey, Sewlyn Mamon, and RJ Pescadera were all suspended after accumulating two yellow cards this season.

FEU now has 12 points to sit on top of the table, two points clear of Ateneo de Manila University.

Jermi Darapan's 22nd-minute penalty pushed FEU in front. They had a chance to double their lead ten minutes later, but this time Adamson keeper Andrew Nalog was able to save another spot kick from Darapan.

But Karl Absalon made no mistake in the 65th minute, converting his third goal of the season for a 2-0 lead. Abdulnasser Mustapa then launched a stoppage time screamer to put the match to bed for the Tamaraws.

"Our last goal, Mustapa was able to step up even though he is fasting," said FEU coach Alberto Besa on the midfielder, who is observing Ramadan.

"There were other players who stepped up also. There were some crucial saves that Jet (Fabrigas) made. You have to give it to Adamson. They came up with some decent attempts," he added.

The Falcons' closest chance to pull one back came in the 86th-minute, when Nikko Arañas' shot hit the woodwork.

Adamson remained at the bottom of the standings with two points.