Kaya FC–Iloilo Seals Second Spot After Stalemate in Biñan
Stallion Laguna 1-1 Kaya FC–Iloilo
Biñan Football Stadium
August 19, 2018 — “It’s not the result we wanted, but it’s the result that we need to secure second spot,” said Kaya FC–Iloilo head coach Noel Marcaida after a 1-1 draw against Stallion Laguna on Sunday afternoon. Although the stalemate meant the season series between the two teams ended even, the result was enough to seal Kaya’s standing as runners up for the 2018 Philippines Football League.
Entering the contest, both Iloilo and Laguna had two wins over the other. And from the first whistle, the two sides demonstrated the parity between them. Kaya, employing a patient, short passing game, enjoyed a bit more control of the match, while Stallion looked to break quickly in transition.
For most of the first half, the game was more of a showcase of defensive prowess rather than attacking flair. The perfect example came six minutes from the break. Ace Villanueva misjudged a long a ball forward, allowing Carlo Polli plenty of room to race to the end line and pick out a teammate. Iloilo center back Masanari Omura was quick to spot the danger, however, and slid in time to deny what would’ve been a sure tap in for the hosts.
Shortly after, Kaya took the lead through Jovin Bedic. Given room on the right flank, Janrick Soriano curled in a wonderful ball that Bedic glanced in with his head. The goal, Jovin’s eighth of the season, gave the visitors the advantage at the break.
The lead didn’t last too long, though. Just 10 minutes after the restart, Camelo Tacusalme’s attempt to head the ball back to Ace Villanueva fell woefully short, allowing Jesus Melliza to pick off the pass and slot the ball in.
Both sides had opportunities to grab the lead in the second half, the best chance of which fell for Robert Lopez Mendy. With less than 10 minutes remaining, Miguel Tanton sent a ball over the Stallion defense to set Robert free. But with only the keeper to beat, Lopez Mendy failed to keep his shot down.
“It’s a good thing we’re able to secure second spot as early as today. We’ve got two more games. They will be a showcase for players who haven’t had many minutes—a chance for them to show what they can bring to the cup (Copa Paulino Alcantara),” said Marcaida.
Kaya returns to action on August 22 against JPV Marikina.
