Kaya FC–Iloilo Down Stallion Laguna to Extend PFL Winning Run to Four

Kaya FC–Iloilo 1-0 Stallion Laguna
Aboitiz Pitch, Lipa, Batangas

24 August 2019 — Kaya FC–Iloilo made it four straight wins in the Philippines Football League on Saturday evening, downing Stallion Laguna, 1-0, at the Aboitiz Pitch in Lipa, Batangas. A piece of brilliance from Jordan Mintah early in the match was enough for the home side to take maximum points.

Missing the services of Marwin Angeles in the middle of the pitch, Kaya still managed to control proceedings from the get-go. Kenshiro Daniels made his first start since returning to the club, proving a threatening option on the left flank. It was on his side where the opening goal came about.

Under pressure from Jordan Mintah, Stallion’s right back coughed up the ball, allowing the Ghanaian forward room to measure a lovely chip over the goalkeeper. Shirmar Felongco was later forced off due to injury, threatening the hosts’ control of the contest. Janrick Soriano deputized seamlessly at right back, however, allowing Iloilo to enter the break with a slim but comfortable advantage.

As expected, the match was a physical affair. But unlike previous encounters, the officiating didn’t allow for emotions to flare. Set pieces were common throughout, allowing Daniels to threaten with his deliveries into the box. Although Mintah and Darryl Roberts won more than their fair share of aerial duels, none led to any clear cut attempts on goal.

Stallion had a chance to equalize shortly before the final whistle, but Ruben Doctora could only hit the crossbar with his header from a long throw. With that spurned opportunity went Laguna’s hopes to share the spoils. Although ultimately an important victory for Kaya, captain Jovin Bedic needed to be stretchered off before the match was through, providing a slight damper on what was otherwise a successful and professional performance.