Ceres gives retiring skipper send-off win

MANILA, Philippines – Adrian Gallardo put in a season-high eight goals as Ceres-La Salle gave retiring skipper Juani Guirado a fitting send-off with a 16-0 demolition of Pasargad in the United Football League at Rizal Memorial Stadium yesterday.

The Spanish striker, the league’s top scorer with 18 goals last season, struck twice in the first half before finding the back of the net six more times at the resumption to post the most lopsided victory by any team in the UFL this season. 

Stephan Schrock also delivered a hat-trick while Patrick Reichelt and Carlie de Murga also knocked in two goals each for Ceres which moved to a share of second spot with Kaya with nine points. 

Guirado, 36, scored in his final professional game with a header midway in the second half. 

The Filipino-Spanish defender, who also had a short spell with Global FC before moving to Ceres, cited personal reasons for his sudden decision to quit Ceres which he helped lead to the UFL title last season. Guirado has also struggled with injuries after returning from national team duties last March. 

“The players were motivated to give Juani a victory before he leaves,” said Ceres coach Ali Go. “We understand his decision. We are grateful to Juani for his contributions not just to the club but to Philippine football in general. He will be missed.”

Loyola Meralco climbed to fifth in the table after dumping Green Archers United, 4-0. 

An own goal from Reynaldo Villareal in the 32nd minute broke the deadlock, before James Younghusband doubled the lead with a composed finish 10 minutes later. 

Joaco Canas made it 3-nil in the 68th minute before Jinggoy Valmayor completed the rout with a close-range strike in second half stoppage time. 

Loyola striker Phil Younghusband played the entire match, assisting on two goals, after helping force the own goal when he fed Kouichi Belgira down the left. Belgira’s center was deflected to goal by Villareal.