FC Meralco trips Ilocos, regains PFL lead

MANILA, Philippines -  FC Meralco Manila regained the lead in the Philippines Football League after posting a 1-0 win over Ilocos United on a rainy Saturday at Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.

Phil Younghusband scored from the spot at the 54th minute as the Sparks claimed the maximum points and took back the No. 1 position they yielded to streaking JPV Marikina last week.

With 20 points overall, Manila moved two up on idle Marikina (18). However, Marikina can overtake Manila again today with a victory against Davao Aguilas at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Over in Bacolod, Ceres Negros extended its win streak to three as it walloped Stallion Laguna FC, 5-2, to soar to third spot with 13 points.

Stephan Schrock netted his maiden goal in the PFL at the 13th minute then Jeff Christiaens (27’), Iain Ramsay (31’), OJ Porteria (33’) and Bienvenido Maranon (60’) joined the fray to give the Busmen a 5-nil cushion that the visitors couldn’t overcome.

Balot Doctora (76’) and Terrance Linatoc (81’) scored for Stallion, which remained with three points, just a point ahead of cellar-dwelling Ilocos (two points).