Struggling Global Cebu notches first win in PFL season over Kaya-Iloilo FC
GLOBAL CEBU FC finally barged into the win column of the ongoing Philippines Football League (PFL) tournament after defeating erstwhile streaking Kaya- Iloilo FC, 3-1, on Wednesday at the Biñan Football Stadium.
Absorbed some key player departures recently, believed to be stemming from its financial woes, Global showed character and determination to notch the much- needed victory over Kaya, which was on a roll entering the match, winning its last four games.
The two teams fought tooth and nail to start what turned out to be an emotional contest.
Extra time was added in the opening half to which Kaya took advantage of, with Masanari Omura giving his team a 1-0 lead when he converted off a pass from teammate Miguel Tanton.
It, however, came after teammate Robert Lopez Mendy was sent off the pitch after reacting angrily to a tackle from Global’s Lee Jeong- Min by putting his hands on the latter’s face that earned him a straight red card and left Kaya with one man down.
Sensing that it has the advantage over 10-men Kaya, Global did not waste time capitalizing on it.
Jordan Jarvis scored for Global in the 60th minute off a header from a corner kick to level the count at 1-all.
Things turned for the worse for Kaya in the 67th minute when Alfred Osei got a red card of his own after an apparent elbow to Daniel Gadia which further reduced the Iloilo squad to nine men.
Global’s Darryl Roberts made Kaya pay in the 72nd minute when he made it 2-1 for his team before Jinggoy Valmayor put the game away in the 83rd minute, burying a one-on-one from a breakaway.
Keeper Patrick Deyto credited the team’s showing character as key to their breakthrough victory.
“It’s no secret that there are challenges in the club. But the players showed character today,” said Mr. Deyto following their victory.
For Global coach Marjo Allado, the win was a huge one for them as they try to have their campaign take off amid what has been a trying campaign to date for the club.
“This is a huge win for us especially against a good team like Kaya. We played well. We look forward to building on this victory,” said Mr. Allado, whose wards won their first game in six outings in the ongoing PFL tournament.
Global next plays JPV Marikina FC on May 27 while Kaya (51-3) takes on Davao Aguilas FC on June 2. —