Sparks edge Ceres in UFL opener

MANILA, Philippines – Loyola Meralco Sparks FC outdueled defending champion Ceres La Salle FC, 3-2, to set off an explosive start in its campaign in the UFL League competition at Rizal Memorial Stadium Saturday night.

James Younghusband (13’), Curt Dizon (45+1’) and Alvaro Castiella (67’) delivered the goals as the Sparks picked up the full three points against the side that’s fresh from booking a historic berth in  the AFC Cup Round of 16 a few days ago.

“This is just a strong team performance today. We won this game by working together. We were battling for each other, covering for each other, having each other’s back and that’s what this club is all about,” said Sparks coach Simon McMenemy.

The Phil Younghusband-less Sparks snapped a four-match losing skid against Ceres, which missed starters Sang Min Kim, Juani Guirado, Adrian Gallardo and Bienvenido Maranon due to injuries.

“We knew that if we worked hard, if we made them work hard and with a little bit of luck we’ll have a chance,” said McMenemy.

Kaya FC demolished Laos FC in another opening-night encounter, 10-2, with Robert Lopez Mendy (40’, 41’), OJ Porteria (27’, 74’) and Louis Clark (55’, 82’) spearheading a searing offensive and scoring a brace each.

Kenshiro Daniels (16’), Jovin Bedic (24’), Julian Matthews (47’) and Janrick Soriano (85’) also found the back of the net in the one-sided affair for the AFC Cup participant.

J Baguioro (8’, 27’, 37’) struck with a hat trick in the first half to lead JP Voltes to a 6-0 shutout of Pasargad in the curtain raiser.