Global FC rips Laos, posts golden double

MANILA, Philippines - Global FC achieved a golden double in the UFL’s 2016 season as it clinched the League title last Sunday at Rizal Memorial Stadium to add up to the Cup diadem it captured earlier.

Powered by the hat-tricks of Japanese Hikeru Minegishi and Matthew Hartmann, Global overpowered Laos FC, 7-0, to rule League play with a game to spare and gain redemption after a disappointing 2015 season. The People’s Club returned to the top after placing second in League and missing Cup action due to suspension in the previous year.

“It’s been a tough journey. We’re happy that we’re able to prove to everybody that Global FC is the most successful team in the Philippines,” said Global CEO Dan Palami.

Global, which played without stalwarts out on duties with the Philippine Azkals, hiked its tally to 47 points on 15 wins, two draws and a loss – well beyond the reach of pursuers Ceres La Salle (38), Loyola Meralco Sparks (37) and JP Voltes (35).

Needing only a draw to seal the championship, Global still went all out against a Laos side that started the match with only 10 men on the turf.

Minegishi knocked down two goals inside the first 10 minutes then Hartmann scored his first at the 19th as the People’s Club took a 3-nil cushion at the half.       

The Japanese winger nailed his third conversion four minutes after the break after which Ivan Petrovic joined the fray to make it 5-0 at the 58th. Hartmann capped the title-clinching win with two more goals in the 79th and 90th.

It was the third League title overall for Global, which looks forward to competing in the AFC Cup.

“We hope to do well in Asian competition,” said Palami.