Kaya finally notches first season win
AFTER failing to notch a victory in the new season of the Philippines Football League (PFL) in its first two tries, Kaya FC-Iloilo made it third time a charm by beating erstwhile undefeated JPV Marikina FC, 1-0, in their Saturday fixture at the University of Makati.
Towed by goalkeeper Ref Cuaresma’s game- long brilliance, holding his ground against every assault from their opponent, Kaya finally barged into the win column following a draw and a loss in its previous assignment in the young 2018 PFL season.
Kaya’s Eric Gaganto scored the lone goal of the night at the 13th minute and it proved to be enough as Kaya stood its ground the rest of the way even as JPV Marikina was unrelenting in its attempt to come back.
“We were dominating in the first half, we had lots of chances. But in the second half it didn’t go well. We gave away so many balls. We weren’t winning second balls, and JPV were able to play their game,” said Kaya head coach Noel Marcaida following their win.
“But I don’t call it (the win) lucky. I consider it hard work from all the players. It was a thrilling game. I’m proud to have Ref’s first clean sheet. He really saved us. We got our first win in the league, so we’re very happy,” the coach added.
The win put Kaya in second place as the PFL action resumes after the international break.
It currently has four points two behind league- leading JPV Marikina (2-0-1).
Defending champion CeresNegros FC ( 1- 0- 0) has three points, followed by Stallion Laguna FC (1-0-1) with three, Davao Aguilas FC ( 0- 1- 0) with one point, and Global FC (0-0-2) the remaining winless team to date.
Despite absorbing their first loss, JPV Marikina coach Dan Padernal was positive of the showing they had against Kaya and is looking forward to bouncing back in their next game.
“We made a few adjustments at halftime and they turned out very well. We were able to get lots of chances. We lost three points today, but the boys worked very hard until the very end. I’m very proud of them. They had chances, but we were just a bit unlucky. I’m still satisfied, and looking forward to our next game,” the coach said. — Michael Angelo S. Murillo