Global rips Stallion, nears UFL rare feat

MANILA, Philippines - Arthur Kouassi struck twice as Global blanked Stallion, 3-0, last Sunday to move within a point from clinching the United Football League crown at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The Ivorian striker scored both goals in the first half, before Omid Nazari curled home a free kick four minutes from time as Global hiked its tally to 44 points for a nine-point lead with two matches remaining.

Global only needs a draw against Laos on Sunday to capture the crown and complete a rare season double, a feat last pulled off by Stallion in 2013.

Stung by a 0-2 loss to JP Voltes last Wednesday, Global set out with a more aggressive approach early on, pressing high and attacking at every opportunity.

Patrick Deyto also sparkled on goal for Global, denying Balot Doctora early on, before Kouassi’s deflected strike beat Ref Cuaresma in the 27th minute.

It was 2-0 just before halftime with Kouassi on the firing end anew, this time, scoring from a tight angle after picking up Serge Kaole’s throw-in on the turn.

Nazari got on the scoresheet when his curling 30-yard free kick left Cuaresma rooted to his spot.

Global coach John Burridge hailed his squad’s spirit as the reigning UFL Cup champions bounced back from their first loss of the season in impressive fashion.