Universitario crowned champions

4 July 2008 | 11:30 - PA Sport

Universitario were crowned Apertura champions in Peru after beating Cienciano 3-1.

The hosts opened the scoring in the 27th minute when Donny Neyra set up Hector Hurtado to beat keeper Cisneros with a strong shot.

 

Defender Jorge Araujo doubled the advantage with a header before Gustavo Vassallo pulled one back for Cienciano.

Colombian Mayer Candelo sealed the win and the title 15 minutes from time.

Midfielder Candelo said afterwards: "We had to overcome many obstacles but the team did not stop working hard. This is the reward for all that hard work. This is a very united and strong squad."

This was the 36th Peruvian title for the Lima-based team, and they secure a place in the upcoming Copa Sudamericana and the 2009 Copa Libertadores.