Field set for opening Philippine Premier League season

The Philippine Premier League. Set to open March 30.

Seven teams made the cut for the launch of the inaugural Philippine Premier League season, the league announced on Friday afternoon.

Four clubs from the Philippines Football League will make the transition to the PPL, led by defending league champions Ceres-Negros FC and inaugural Copa Paulino Alcantara champions Kaya FC-Iloilo. Stallion Laguna FC and United Makati FC will make the move, with the latter rebranding itself from Global Cebu FC.

The other three clubs that will complete the cast are familiar names to many a hardcore Filipino football fan, as they all were part of the United Football League earlier this decade, led by one of its former league champions Philippine Air Force.

The Airmen's representatives were among those present when the launch of the league was conducted earlier this year, led by former Philippine international Ian Araneta, who will take on a coaching role in this go around.

GAU was the most notable club that passed on the opportunity to join the PFL during its existence, spending the time after the UFL instead at the WFL Elite.

The final team that made the cut is Mendiola FC, whose last iteration saw them in UFL's Division II, but has a hallowed tradition based on their bloodline connection with traditional collegiate football powerhouse San Beda.

All seven teams will also take part in the Copa Paulino Alcantara, which the PPL will retain as its cup competition.

The league also revealed today that the schedule for the inaugural season will be released on March 15, kicking off its campaign with a 4pm and 7pm doubleheader on March 30 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

The latter portion of the doubleheader will be shown LIVE on 5Plus and streamed online through the media outfit's social media portals.

The PPL also exhorted its fans to help keep the spirit of football alive in the country by inviting them to come and support the teams.

Ceres-Negros set to clinch PFL title

Ceres-Negros FC's Bienvenido Maranon being guarded by Global-Cebu FC's Jinggoy Valmayor

Ceres-Negros is set to clinch back-to-back Philippines Football League titles provided the results go their way against Global-Cebu FC tonight at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Kick-off for today's matchup is set at 7pm, with tickets into the stadium costing PhP100.

The table was set when the two teams clashed this past Saturday, with the Busmen running roughshod over the league doormats, 7-1, also at Rizal Memorial.

Ceres-Negros just needs at least a draw from their remaining four matches to assure themselves of the championship, as they currently have 51 points. Kaya FC-Iloilo is second place with 33 points.

Securing the league title allows Ceres-Negros guaranteed access to continental football next season, as they enter the AFC Champions League playoff, and in case they fail to qualify there to the group stage, an automatic bid into the AFC Cup.

They are already set to have their AFC Cup Zonal Final matchup against Singapore Premier League's Home United. The first leg will take place at Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod on August 1, with the return leg in Singapore a week later.

In addition to tonight's matchup, the PFL will also have the rescheduled match between JPV Marikina and Davao Aguilas at 3pm. The game will be played at the PFF Training Center in Carmona, after weather conditions forced the postponement a few days ago.

Both matches will be streamed LIVE on pfltv.ph.

Global Cebu FC comments on PFL Finals Series announcement

Global Cebu FC

In a series of tweets early this morning, Global Cebu FC revealed their thoughts on the Philippines Football League's decision to have their PFL Finals Series matchup with Ceres-Negros FC at the Busmen's home field in Bacolod. The tweets, when grouped together, formed this statement:

NEGROS vs CEBU. The first PFL Final will be held in Panaad Park and Stadium.

The club wishes to extend its gratitude to everyone who shared our desire to hold the final at Cebu City Sports Center. While we yearn to bring the match closer to our supporters, let it be known that we are ready to play anyone, anywhere.

As we abide by the PFL's decision, we are inviting you - our loyal supporters - to come to Bacolod. Cebu's quest for the inaugural Philippines Football League championship reaches its climax, and we want to share those moments with you.

PADAYON. Abante Sugbo! #PFL2017 #PFLFinalsSeries

The PFL on Monday announced on Monday that the Final will take place at the Pana-ad Park and Stadium, citing Article 2.11 of the league's regulations. Said provision allows the league to pick a venue based on a variety of factors, which include and are not limited to venue availability, commercial, marketing, and financial considerations. Pana-ad beat out Rizal Memorial for the right to host the final between the two teams, which will kick off at 6pm.

Before the announcement awarding the hosting rights to Pana-ad, Global Cebu publicized a letter sent to the league about their intent to have the final at the Cebu City Sports Center

TO ALL our supporters and stakeholders: We have informed the Philippines Football League that Global Cebu FC intends to exercise our right to host the inaugural #PFLFinal this weekend in Cebu City. Thank you. #AbanteSugbo pic.twitter.com/IbFXKmym38

— Global Cebu FC (@GlobalCebuFC) December 11, 2017

However, the league cited the pitch and lighting conditions at the CCSC as a reason for the venue's unavailability.

The same announcement revealed that the third place match between FC Meralco Manila and Kaya FC-Makati will take place at Rizal Memorial on December 15, with a kickoff time to be determined.

Global Cebu FC secures PFL Finals berth

Paolo Salenga trying to pry away the ball from Tyler Matas.

Global Cebu showed poise in securing a finals berth in their Philippines Football League Finals Series matchup against FC Meralco Manila on Saturday night.

Rufo Sanchez's 85th minute equalizer negated Curt Dizon's strike in the second minute, securing a 1-1 draw that would make it good enough to go through on aggregate, 3-2.

The Sparks secured an ideal start by nabbing a quick goal after kickoff, as Dizon controlled a long throw from Tyler Matas from the left flank and artfully lobbed the ball over the Global defense. Patrick Deyto had a chance to deny the goal, but his fingers were not enough to prevent it from crossing the line and into the net.

The goal made it 2-2 on aggregate, which if it held, would be enough for the Sparks to advance via the away goals rule.

Global would have numerous opportunities to find the equalizer for the rest of the first half, with Hikaru Minegeshi's free kick midway into the period going wide, while Paolo Salenga's chance a few minutes later weakly fired towards Junjun Badelic. The 38th minute saw Sanchez's header from a Minegeshi free kick hitting the woodwork, while Wesley Dos Santos' attempt just before the halftime whistle went over the bar.

Global continued to put more pressure in the second half, as Badelic would deny Sanchez with a foot save moments after kickoff. The Sparks netminder would continue to hold the fort, holding off attempts by Dos Santos and Dennis Villanueva.

Eventually, Global gets their much sought-after equalizer, as Sanchez would bundle in a scrappy goal from inside the area.

FC Meralco Manila had a chance to retake the lead and force extra time, but their free kick did not prosper, thus giving Global Cebu a pass into the final.

Global head coach Akbar Nawas praised his players for sticking with the game plan, acknowledging that "with this team, you know you can always get a goal back."

Sparks mentor Aris Caslib explains, "We had chances in transition, but we were not able to complete them because our front players were too wide."

Global will now face Ceres-Negros FC in the final after the Busmen dispatched Kaya FC-Makati, 2-1 and 3-1 on aggregate that same evening to set up another match to add on to their rivalry on December 16.

As for the Sparks, they face Kaya FC in the third place game also this weekend.

PFL Finals Series second legs set

Spark Connor Tacagni duels for possession with Cebu's Wesley Dos Santos.

Tonight is going to be a good night, as the Philippines Football League determines who participates in the Final next week with the second legs of both Finals Series matches taking place starting at 7pm.

At Rizal Memorial Football Stadium, Global Cebu FC seeks to pull out the upset rug on FC Meralco Manila, as they tote a 2-1 advantage after the first leg.

The Sparks are looking to make amends after their late meltdown allowed Global to snatch the victory away. They did manage to score an away goal last week, which could come into play later.

Joaco Canas acknowledges that "if we can fix the mistakes and read the game better, then we can make it to the final, but it won't be easy. Team skipper Simon Greatwich adds, "We just didn't kill the game off, so we were punished." Both players shared that they were the better side last week.

For the upcoming match, Greatwich admitted that they need to be cautious in order to prevent Global from scoring, while also being clinical with their own chances.

Aris Caslib notes that they have to mainly "stop their transition and control the front players," among other things. Greatwich also noted that the team tried a few variations in training to prepare for this match.

At the pre-match press conference on Friday, both coaches noted the magnitude of the game, with whoever wanting it more will be getting the victory and advance to the final. They are looking at how the first leg went and make the necessary adjustments heading into this one.

Daryl Roberts is hoping for Global's rabid supporters would make their presence felt in the away leg.

Streaming for this fixture can be seen below:



Meanwhile at the Pana-ad Park and Stadium, Ceres-Negros seeks to fend off Kaya FC-Makati in front of its home crowd.

The Busmen own a 1-0 advantage after Stephan Schroeck scored in injury time. The former Philippine international knows that visitors will do everything to win the match, adding that "we'll be ready to do everything as well."

Kaya FC-Makati head coach Noel Marcaida notes that loss does not change the fact that the team's mentality heading into tonight remains the same, and that is to beat Ceres.

Stakes are high, as the winners are guaranteed continental football next year with AFC Cup participation.

Streaming for this fixture can be seen below:



The winners of the Finals Series will duke it out on December 16 for the right to be the first Philippines Football League champion.

Global Cebu snatch PFL Finals Series first leg advantage

Pandemonium after Global scored a goal late.

Global Cebu FC claimed a 2-1 victory over FC Meralco Manila in the first leg of their Philippines Football League Finals Series matchup at the Rizal Memorial Football Field last Saturday night.

Global secured the advantage by scoring a couple of late goals. A Hikaru Minegeshi corner led to a Wesley Dos Santos header that went past Junjun Badelic in the 90th minute, which was then followed by a Minegeshi goal off a feed from Paolo Salenga three minutes later.

The Sparks did manage to score an essential away goal from the spot, thanks to a foul called on Darryl Regala inside the area against Tahj Minniecon. Minniecon would convert the penalty in the 61st minute, sending it towards the lower left side past Patrick Deyto.

The first half ended in a goalless deadlock, although FC Meralco Manila dominated proceedings, which included scoring opportunities from Joaco Canas and Simon Greatwich.

It even included a first half substitution, as Akbar Nawas replaced Paul Mulders with Paolo Bugas with around ten minutes remaining in the period.

However, the tide turned when Nawas inserted Paolo Salenga for Regala with eleven minutes remaining in the second half. His aggressive play inspired Global and eventually netted the two goals Global needed.

Nawas would share that the team need someone of the NU alum's caliber both on the starting XI and on the bench.

Minegeshi adds, "We were lucky, but we never gave up."

FC Meralco Manila head coach Aris Caslib felt the team lost the game in the last fifteen minutes, noting that they did not manage it well. He does think they can score as well as defend against Global in the second leg.

Notes: The Sparks started off the game wearing t-shirts in support of their Assistant General Manager Gino Aguda, whose father passed away on Thursday before the game. Global is playing both games at Rizal Memorial as a result of the unavailability of the Cebu City Sports Complex.

FC Meralco Manila and Global Cebu to kick off Finals Series

FC Meralco striker Tahj Minniecon evades the Cebu defense.

With the grueling eliminations already concluded, FC Meralco Manila and Global Cebu FC are scheduled to open the Finals Series tomorrow at 7pm.

FC Meralco Manila secured the best record in the eliminations to nab the top seeding, while Global Cebu FC was the last team to officially book their postseason seat.

With Global unable to find a suitable venue for its home leg tomorrow, both matches will now take place at the Sparks' designated home venue, the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Both matches have won a game against each other this season. They have also drawn two other times. Finally defeating them in November provided psychological benefits and allowed its fans to witness the team's great character, according to head coach Aris Caslib.

The Sparks may have finished on top of the Philippines Football League regular season standings but now the hard part comes: the four-team Finals Series playoff phase. As top seed Manila earns the right to square off versus the fourth seed, Global Cebu FC.

Curt Dizon still thinks highly of Global even with the victory, "We have more confidence after beating them, but we can't take them lightly." It is something that Simon Greatwich co-signs, "They have been consistently good every year. They have won silverware and have lots of experience playing abroad. But every season when we play them it's a close game, usually decided by just one goal," the team skipper shared.

Simon also adds, "But the team spirit is good, everyone is positive and working hard in training."

Since the loss to FC Meralco Manila, Global has played twice, both times having to travel, with a penalty shootout loss to Albirex Niigata (S) in the RHB Singapore Cup Final and defeating Ceres-Negros, 2-0, in what was described as a dull and drab affair at the Cebu City Sports Complex. Caslib thinks that the travel should have a certain effect on the team, and it is an opportunity worth exploiting.

Tickets are available at the gate. Streaming link for the game, if one cannot be at Rizal Memorial, can be seen below.



Whoever survives this semifinal match-up will face the winner of the matchup between Ceres-Negros FC and Kaya FC-Makati, whose first leg starts tomorrow, in a one-off final on December 16.

Notable quotes from the pre-match press conference:

Global Cebu Head Coach Akbar Nawas:

We are really looking forward to this game.
We have been playing here in Manila a lot, so no problem. I feel for the fans in Cebu, but it is what it is considering the circumstances. I hope they will still support us.
Our fitness is just right. We will be okay for tomorrow. The team is always up for a series like this, with a chance to go to the final.
We did get two players who might be back from injury. We will see who is sharp in training and make the best lineup.

FC Meralco Manila Head Coach Aris Caslib:

We will take this one match at a time. We will focus on this game and see if we can get good results.
The confidence of the team is high. This will be a good opportunity for to rest, because we don't need to travel.

Global Cebu FC's Dom del Rosario:

This is the Finals Series, so we will give everything.
It will be a good game. Our games have been close this season, two draws and a win for both teams. Everyone will be pushing for 90 minutes.

FC Meralco Manila's Curt Dizon:

Everyone is looking forward to this game. It will be an interesting game.
Global is a historic club. We want to make our own history. At the end of the day, it is about who wants that AFC Cup slot.

Daniel Gadia ensures FC Meralco Manila victory over Global Cebu FC

FC Meralco Manila secured some much-needed breathing room atop the Philippines Football League with a narrow 2-1 victory over Global Cebu FC this past Sunday night at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Daniel Gadia scored the game-winner for the Sparks four minutes from time, as the substitute scored his first goal of the season. Replacing recent acquisition Franco de la Torre in midfield, he eased in his shot past the line, then celebrated afterwards, netting a yellow card in the process.'

Tahj Minniecon opened scoring for FC Meralco Manila in the 32nd minute, receiving a pass from Jim Ashley Flores and then producing a clinical finish against Patrick Deyto. Global Cebu would equalized just minutes before the halftime whistle, scoring through a magnificent volley from Hikaru Minegeshi.

Global had a chance to secure an equalizer in injury time, but Ace Villanueva deflected Rufo Sanchez's shot over the bar.

Head coach Aris Caslib praised the UP alum after the match, "All week, we had been reminding Gadia to just the place the ball on his finishing. In the last fifteen minutes of the game he did his job well."

His counterpart, Akbar Nawas, could only bemoan his squad's missed scoring opportunities, saying "We were unlucky with our chances in goal, so many from so near."

Lee Jeong Min humbly deflected the praise that had been bestown his way, noting that "Everyone worked hard," and adding, "I don't want to be a star. I just want to help my teammates. It's my job." He felt that Gadia should have been the one addressing the media post-match after his heroics.

The win allows FC Meralco Manila to extend its reign atop the PFL table a little bit longer, owning a four-point gap against Ceres-Negros FC, with the latter having two games in hand. The two teams are set to face off later this week.

As for Global, they are all but locked in as the fourth seed heading into the Finals Series, which will commence starting December 2. They close out the eliminations next week against Ceres-Negros.

Notes:

Flores and de la Torre were given spot starts for this matchup by Caslib... Tyler Matas finally gets a break from football action, as he will be suspended for the upcoming Ceres match due to card accumulation... Global Cebu is the home side for this matchup, even though the game is at the Sparks' home ground, as the CCSC is being used as the venue for the Visayan leg of the Batang Pinoy competition. The Sparks' win over Global ensures that they have a win against all the other PFL teams.

Potential PFL Finals Series Preview looms for Global Cebu and FC Meralco Manila

Meralco's Milan Nikolic duels with Global's Wesley Dos Santos.

In what could turn out to be a potential Finals Series preview, Global Cebu FC hosts FC Meralco Manila tonight at Rizal Memorial Football Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled at 7pm.

Global has had the Sparks' number this season, defeating them once and drawing them twice so far, hoping that this would be an advantage heading into their fourth and final meeting before the Finals Series. They are fresh from securing a 3-3 draw against Ilocos United at the Elpidio P. Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Ilocos Sur. A win could put them on track to potentially move past Kaya FC-Makati into third place, especially in the aftermath of Kaya losing 3-1 in their final eliminations matchup against also-rans Davao Aguilas last night. With Kaya already wrapping up their eliminations campaign with 47 points and a +19 goal difference, a victory against the Sparks would put them level on points heading into their final league match-up against Ceres-Negros FC on November 28.

With the Cebu City Sports Complex unavailable due to the Visayan leg of the Batang Pinoy competition, the match will be played at Rizal Memorial, which is the home venue of FC Meralco Manila.

As for the Sparks, a win provides a little bit of breathing space atop the standings, although Ceres-Negros is currently primed to move past them considering their remaining schedule, their 1-1 draw against Ilocos United last night notwithstanding. The draw reduced the gap between the two teams to just a single point, 53 to 52.

With the match at Rizal Memorial, it means FC Meralco Manila will be playing its remaining two matches in the eliminations at its home venue.

If one is unable to attend the match in person, one can check out the available streaming option below.

Here are some notes from the pre-match press conference held yesterday:

FC Meralco Manila head coach Aris Caslib: Everyone has realized during the last three days of training that we have to step up and give our individual contributions.

We are pushing everyone to be physically and mentally ready for the demands of the semis.

In our previous games against Global, we controlled the match for long periods of time, but we need to improve our finishing. In the game we lost to them, it was due to a lack of concentration.

Global is a quality team. It is a good challenge for us to step up against them.

FC Meralco Manila goalkeeper Ace Villanueva: We as a team agreed that our mindset was to bounce back and be as a unit and finish our remaining games on a high note.

We are very motivated. The remaining games are the important ones because they are leading to the playoffs.

Global Cebu FC head coach Akbar Nawas: We will know come kickoff how important the coaches will be treating this game. Yes, third place is our target, but the most important thing is that your team is set up to win a game.

The draw against Ilocos last Wednesday will not affect our confidence. Every game is different. That result will have no bearing on the spirit and confidence of the side for tomorrow.

Kaya FC-Makati at cusp of PFL postseason berth

The Kaya FC Starting XI in their win over Global Cebu

Kaya FC - Makati is at the cusp of formalizing a berth in the Philippines Football League's Finals Series, as they successfully fended off Global Cebu FC, 2-0, at the University of Makati this past weekend.

The hosts managed to put in a goal in each half against their opposition, with Jordan Mintah breaking the deadlock eight minutes in, off a feed from Robert Lopez Mendy and outmuscling Dennis Villanueva in the process. This is the fifth straight game he has been on the scoresheet, with seventeen goals already this season. He shared afterwards that he had been dealing with an injured foot that would keep him from training in the runup to this match. Jordan adds that he was very grateful for the support from his teammates.

They would then double the lead with substitute Eric Giganto fifteen minutes from time. Off a counter, the FEU alumnus received the ball from Miguel Tanton and then dribbled past Patrick Deyto, before slotting the ball onto an empty net for his fifth goal of the season.

After the match, head coach Noel Marcaida was "very happy" with the result, expressing satisfaction that they "were able to get maximum points against Global." He also noted that the match seemed to not that explosive as he would have thought, adds, "For me, it was a very unusual atmosphere. Kaya Makati versus Global is the type of game where the intensity should be very high... I think we started the first 10 minutes with high intensity. During that period we got the goal. Then the intensity went down. It wasn't the best game we've had, but in the end it was comfortable."

When asked about the Giganto substitution, Marcaida replies, "We wanted to change the intensity of the game." He also remarked, "Eric is such a quality player. He's a very influential sub. Every time he comes in, he really makes sure to do something for the team."

As for his Global Cebu counterpart, Akbar Nawas rued the difficulty of playing at the natural grass surface at the University of Makati. He says, "I think if we put away the chances that we had in the first and second half it would've been a different game.. But anyway, it's as good as it gets on this kind of pitch. The pitch was difficult to play on... With a better pitch, you never know what kind of result we could've put up."

Kaya, Global set to tangle in PFL Top 4 encounter

Kaya vs Global

The race for the Finals Series gets even more intense this afternoon in the Philippines Football League, as Kaya FC-Makati and Global Cebu FC tangle at the University of Makati at 4pm.

Both sides acknowledge the magnitude of the affair. Global head coach Akbar Nawas says, "At this stage of the season, especially for the clubs looking for the top four for the playoffs, every game is important. So I guess it's a must-win for both sides. But having said that, we still need to go out there and play our best and see if the result goes our way." His Kaya counterpart, Noel Marcaida, agrees. "It's going to be massive. Both teams know the importance of Saturday's game. Coming from the Ceres match, there's a bit of disappointment, but looking forward, we're looking to get the three points against Global."

Robert Lopez Mendy simplified things when he was asked about how things would play out in the Finals Series. "Only one thing comes to my mind, and that's playing in the AFC [Cup], no matter what. So to do that we need to win all our games," he said.

Separated by four points, both teams are coming off contrasting results. The hosts are fresh from a narrow 3-2 defeat to Ceres-Negros FC at the Pana-ad Park and Stadium, while the visitors ended their mini-slump in league play with a 2-1 win against JPV Marikina FC at the CCSC. A win by either side would boost their postseason aspirations, especially since both teams have battled to draws in their previous two meetings.

Marcaida shares, "We're very positive going into Saturday's game. In the previous two games that we played Global, I think we can say that we were dominant, especially the one where we played on their home turf in Cebu. I think that was one of the best games we've played. We were just unlucky not to get that chance in front of goal. But looking forward we'll make sure that if we create chances, we'll make sure that we convert."

Tickets are currently available at the gate or via SM Tickets, but Kaya FC-Makati announced through social media that the first 140 fans at the Grandstand entrance and the first 50 fans at the field side entrance will get free admission.

Proceeds from today's match will be sent to the iCanServe Foundation as part of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Fans are encouraged to wear pink.

In addition, streaming is also available below.

Ceres-Negros prevents Davao breakthrough

Davao hosting Ceres at Tagum earlier this week.

The Davao Aguilas have yet to win a football game as a club in the Philippines Football League, as they were held by Ceres-Negros FC to a 1-1 draw on Wednesday afternoon at the Davao del Norte Sports Complex in Tagum City.

With the attention the team got after making the decision to name Marlon Maro as the interim head coach to replace their inaugural gaffer Gary Phillips, the Aguilas were hoping that such a change would lead to an improvement in fortune after losing six of their last eight matches.

Such changes saw immediate dividends, with James Younghusband scoring the opening goal of the match in the 27th minute, as a Phil Younghusband free kick found its way to Harry Sawyer inside the area, with the ball eventually finding James to poke in past the line, after getting a deflection off a Ceres defender.

The Busmen did have their scoring opportunities. Stephan Schroeck's chance in the tenth minute was deflected to the left of the post in the tenth minute, while Manny Ott's opportunity was saved by Marko Trkulja in the 36th minute. Ceres also had a couple of chances just before the first half ended, but the break came with the hosts taking a 1-0 lead.

The visitors continued to put pressure on the Davao defense to find an equalizer to start off the second half, with Schroeck's attempt from the right side being saved by Trkulja in the 48th minute. They eventually would break through in the 73rd minute, as Fernando Rodriguez finally puts Ceres on the board with a header from inside the area.

Each side had their chances to secure the winning goal, but Trkulja challenged Iain Ramsay's scoring opportunity in the 76th minute, while Jeffrey Christiaens and Omid Nazari could not convert on their chances. Meanwhile, Simone Rota's header off a free kick, was ruled offside in the 84th minute, an outcome that Maro was not thrilled with.

Meanwhile, in what was the surprising development of the day for the PFL, the other match scheduled for the day between Global Cebu FC and Stallion Laguna FC at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium was cancelled. Both teams, represented by Josef Malinay for the hosts and Ernie Nierras for the visitors, would then conduct a press conference to address this particular matter, mainly apologizing to the fans for the sudden cancellation.

As of this writing, the league has not yet addressed the statements made by both teams concerned publicly. Aside from its post on Facebook announcing said postponement, the PFL has yet to officially comment on this matter.

NOTES: Attendance at Tagum for this match was just under four thousand. Maro at the post-match press conference: "We indeed won. However, the referee nullified our second goal. It's his opinion. We respect it. To our fans, we are still on the right track for the remaining matches. Ceres has 29 points, but can easily overcome their twelve-point deficit to FC Meralco Manila with their five games in hand. Davao remains mired in seventh place with seven points.

Marlon Maro set to make PFL head coaching debut

With the team's continuing struggles in its inaugural season as a club, the Davao Aguilas have turned to a local face to lead the charge in changing their fortunes in the Philippines Football League.

Tasked to replace Gary Phillips on an interim coaching capacity is Marlon Maro, who was the head coach of the Philippines' Under-22 men's football team at the Southeast Asian Games. When asked about potential adjustments heading into their matchup against the Busmen, Maro noted that "there will be a lot of changes, but there is only one option, which is winning." He added that the team is in "high spirits" and is looking forward to snatching their first win this season.

The lone Mindanao side in the PFL has mustered only six points in fifteen matches, with losses in six of its last eight fixtures. In spite of this, Maro still believes that the team can still make a push for the postseason, highlighting that it still remains mathematically possible to be among the top four teams.

Meanwhile, Ceres-Negros is currently in fourth place with 28 points, but has at least six games in hand compared to the teams above and below it in the race for the postseason.


Streaming for the Davao vs Ceres matchup can be seen below.



Meanwhile, the other PFL matchup set to tip off at the same time is Global Cebu FC hosting Stallion Laguna FC at the Cebu City Sports Complex.

Global is currently in third place at 34 points, and with a game in hand against current second placers Kaya FC-Makati, are seeking to retake that plum position with a victory. Stallion is on the outside looking in at sixth place with 26 points, and a win on the road will bunch up the field further in the race for the postseason.

The hosts are seeking to avenge their 2-1 loss to the visitors in their last meeting on August 25, the final PFL match before the FIFA international break. They are also going to attempt to douse fire on Jhanjhan Melliza and his red-hot scoring streak for the Lakeside Squad.

FC Meralco Manila, Global battle to a PFL top-of-table stalemate

FC Meralco Manila battled to a goalless draw against Global Cebu FC at the Cebu City Sports Complex in front of 4,850 spectators last Saturday afternoon in a matchup featuring the top two sides in the Philippines Football League.

Patrick Deyto shone for the hosts, ably preventing what was the best scoring opportunity of the match, redirecting a Tahj Minniecon shot to prevent the Sparks from netting a goal.

Rainy conditions during the second half made playing onto the natural grass surface a little bit more dicey, although that did not prevent FC Meralco Manila from making a couple of unsuccessful scoring forays. Alvin Sarmiento had a chance in the 56th minute, but his shot went directly to Deyto, while Minniecon got another chance in the 63rd minute, but his shot went wide instead.

The hosts also had their own missed opportunities, with a couple of set piece situations that they were unable to convert.

As a result of both sides splitting the points, the Sparks maintain their seven-point gap against Global, 41-34, with the former also having a game in hand.

FC Meralco Manila head coach Aris Caslib post-match says, "The usual fast transition of Global was evident in the last twenty minutes, and we had a hard time managing it." He also took the opportunity to praise the home crowd, noting that "There were a lot of kids watching, which is good because the effect of this will be long-term."

Meanwhile, Aris' Global Cebu counterpart Akbar Nawas praised Deyto's performance, sharing that "He has saved us a lot throughout the season." Patrick highlighted that both teams played safe in this matchup, adding that "It is hard to take risks in this kind of game."

Meanwhile, the two other PFL matches scheduled alongside this fixture netted victories for Ceres-Negros FC and Stallion Laguna FC.

The Busmen extend the woes of the Davao Aguilas FC with a 3-1 victory at Rizal Memorial Football Stadium, while the red-hot Jhanjhan Melliza kept his goal scoring run going by scoring the lone goal for the Lakeside Squad against JPV Marikina FC in the 77th minute.

Global hosts Davao in midweek PFL showdown

The Philippines Football League has one midweek matchup to take note of, with Global Cebu FC set to host Davao Aguilas FC tonight at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Fresh from their 2-2 draw at Tagum City days earlier, both teams seek to have their fourth and final meeting against each other on a winning note. Both sides also desperate for a victory, with Davao still seeking their first win in the PFL, while Global has yet to taste victory in the last four league matches.

Gary Phillips believes that the new additions will help with the team's depth, acknowledging that they have plenty of matches still to be played, including the immediate stretch of seven matches in 22 days. Although they had six weeks off, due to the international break, and the break the league gave the team due to the number of players in the squad that had been called up for the SEA Games.

He adds that these additions will raise the standard for everyone, especially since we have a bunch of young players. The entire team is looking forward to the challenge, admitting that they still have a long way to go.

Having the opportunity to go to Malaysia for a camp enabled the team to get to know each other, Gary adds, also noting, "We needed to play games due to the fact that we had six weeks off." He also says that they still need to fine-tune their defense, especially with regards to set pieces.

On the other hand, Global head coach Akbar Nawas acknowledged that it takes time for a team develop a certain style of play, although he thought that their last meeting was a fair result.

Both coaches did highlight the fact the team that commits fewer mistakes will win this matchup.

Streaming link for the match can be seen below.



NOTE: The league announced that the kickoff has been moved from its original 4pm start time to 7pm, a move that was welcomed by all parties, including fans who wish to attend the games.

Philippines Football League resumes today

Phil Younghusband at one of the tune-up matches of Davao Aguilas FC in Malaysia recently (Photo by Mickey Sanchez)

After the international break, the Philippines Football League is set to resume play this weekend, with three matches on tap.

On Saturday, the Davao del Norte Sports Complex will be hosting the long-awaited debut of the Younghusband brothers with Davao Aguilas FC, as they host Global Cebu FC at 4pm. They are the crown jewels of Gary Phillips' retooling efforts, with both scoring in the Asian Cup Qualifier against Yemen earlier this week at the Pana-ad Park and Stadium in Bacolod.

While most teams had a long international break, the Aguilas have had a longer sabbatical from league play, as a result of having a bulk of players being called up for national team duty at the Southeast Asian Games. They last played back in July 29, losing 3-2 to league-leading FC Meralco Manila.

The lone Mindanao-based team in the PFL is still seeking their first win of the season, with losses in four of their last five matches. They used their break by having a camp in Malaysia, going up against various Malay clubs as they await their return to league play. This also kicks off a brutal stretch of matches for Davao, with five matches in a span of two weeks, with a home-and-home against Global Cebu, then a back-to-back against Ceres-Negros FC, and the much-anticipated first meeting of the Younghusbands against their former team on September 23.

On the other hand, Global Cebu FC is also in a slump of their own, without a league win in the last month, with the latest being a 2-1 loss to Stallion Laguna FC in Binan.

Meanwhile, there is a club football doubleheader at separate venues on Sunday.

At 4pm, Stallion Laguna FC seeks to extend their winning run to three straight matches by hosting league cellar-dwellers Ilocos United FC at the Binan Football Stadium, while JPV Marikina FC hosts Kaya FC at 7pm at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

The latter two teams are involved in the latest league ruling, as they awarded Kaya a 3-0 forfeiture win over JPV in their May 27 fixture. As a result, Kaya now is in solo second place with 32 points in 19 matches.

Both teams are seeking a much-needed win, with JPV only having one since June 25, while Kaya has not yet secured a win since their five-match streak.

Meanwhile, FC Meralco Manila and Ceres-Negros FC will resume football activities later in the week, with the latter hosting an AFC Cup Inter-zonal semifinal against FC Istiklol on September 12 before traveling to Davao to face the Aguilas on the 16th, the same day FC Meralco Manila travels to Cebu to face Global.

Global, Ilocos face off at Abellana

Global Cebu FC looks to build on their impressive July this afternoon, as the Visayan side hosts Ilocos United at the Cebu City Sports Complex.

Currently in solo third place with 25 points off a 7-4-2 record, Global just two points behind the leaders Kaya FC-Makati and FC Meralco Manila.  In contrast, Ilocos is still searching for its first official victory as a club, currently at the cellar with only three draws to show.

In spite of the contrast in form between both teams, Global Cebu FC head coach Akbar Nawas remains wary about a potential upset, says "It's always dangerous to play against a team searching for win. If we go out there without the right frame of mind, we might be in trouble."

Adam Mitter admits that the team has been unlucky the past couple of weeks. However, he says, "A win is just around the corner if we continue to do what we are doing." Ilocos head coach Ian Gillan still believes that the team remains on the right track, however.

Reports are out there that Rufo Sanchez has been cleared to play later. That can't be said for Anton del Rosario and Paul Mulders, who are suspended this afternoon.

Kickoff for the match is at 4pm, and if one can't get to the venue, there is streaming available.



There is another scheduled Philippines Football League matchup tonight, as 1 meets 2, with FC Meralco Manila hosting Kaya FC-Makati at Rizal Memorial Football Stadium at 7pm.

Global Cebu stuffs FC Meralco Manila

Global Cebu moved to solo third place in the lone midweek matchup of the Philippines Football League, thanks to a 2-1 victory over FC Meralco Manila at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Substitute OJ Clarino scored the game-winning goal for the visitors in the 68th minute, receiving a Jerry Barbaso cross and nodding it past Ace Villanueva.

The Sparks started the scoring off on the wrong foot, with Milan Nikolic's errant attempt to clear a cross went into their own net instead in the 18th minute. Making things worse is that Joaco Cañas had to be replaced after just thirty minutes due to a hamstring strain.

Even with those mishaps, the defense still managed to hold firm, led by the efforts of Villanueva. They finally found their much-sought equalizer just before the halftime whistle, as Simon Greatwich tied things up off a feed from Tahj Minniecon.

FC Meralco Manila had a chance to move ahead early in the second half, but Philippine international Patrick Deyto snuffed out a Minniecon attempt.

After Clarino put Global ahead, he had the chance to double the lead, but Villanueva managed to prevent that from happening.

The Sparks had their opportunities to replicate their 2-2 result last meeting, especially since the visitors played with ten men in the final few minutes due to Paul Mulders being sent off. Unfortunately for the hosts, they failed to find the tying goal.

Even with their second loss of the PFL season, FC Meralco Manila remains level on points with Kaya FC-Makati at 27 points, toting the inferior goal difference against their upcoming opponents this Saturday. As for Global-Cebu FC, it moves them up into solo third place with 25 points, with an outside shot of moving into first place also this Saturday as they host cellar-dwellers Ilocos United.

NOTES:

FC Meralco Manila head coach Aris Caslib went with Daniel Gadia and Connor Tacagni to replace the Younghusbands on the starting lineup. Start list still reflected the Younghusbands as part of the Sparks' roster, although this photo taken last night shows transfer has been made.

Here is the photo of @PhilYHusband and @JYH7 reflecting the move to @davaoaguilasfc -> pic.twitter.com/MXpW1CngHi

— PHSports LiveScores (@LiveScoresPH) August 3, 2017

Meanwhile, Dominic del Rosario officially made his Global FC debut after his transfer from Ilocos United FC. Darryl Regala was an unused substitute. As for Rufo Sanchez, his name was not yet officially on the team sheet, even if the team announced the transfer.

.@rufinho9 isn't on @GlobalCebuFC's team list yet. #PFL2017 pic.twitter.com/La9Ewfi331

— Football.com.ph (@FootballComPH) August 2, 2017

Caslib acknowledged the team's frustration with three missed handball calls during the match, but he says, "We all have a responsibility to develop the game. Players, coaches, and referees. Let's hope the officiating evolves as the league evolves." He adds, "Everyone in the team has to step up, but it's a process. If we all do our job well we can succeed."

Global Cebu FC head coach Akbar Nawas after the match: "Everyone thought it would be a walk in the park without the Younghusbands, but it was not the case. It was a tough match. Global defender Wesley Dos Santos praised Barbaso and Dennis Villanueva's work during the match, while also crediting the hosts' strong and fast attack.

FC Meralco Manila seeks solo PFL lead versus Global Cebu

Life without the Younghusband brothers officially begins for FC Meralco Manila this afternoon, as the Sparks attempt to take solo leadership of the Philippines Football League against Global Cebu FC at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Currently level on points with idle Kaya FC-Makati at 27, FC Meralco Manila owns the inferior goal difference, but has a couple of games in hand.

Head coach Aris Caslib noted that "it will not be easy" to try to pull off the victory against the former UFL champions, but adds that "we will do their best." He shared that the squad has been working on fixing their transition, with Tahj Minniecon, Curt Dizon, and Daniel Gadia taking up the cudgels in funneling the attack.

As for the team moving on, Caslib noted that "the players were ready already for the next chapter of the club's story." Everyone is prepared. They know their task, they know how to play against Global. I think it is going to be a tough match." He adds that everyone would have step up, although he specifically Connor Tacagni and Jinggoy Valmayor to step up, and guys like Simon Greatwich, Milan Nikolic, and Minniecon that can push the team to the next level.

Global Cebu seeks to take solo third in the standings, as they are level on points with Ceres-Negros FC and own the inferior goal difference. A win would also keep themselves within striking distance of the leaders.

Addressing the media, head coach Akbar Nawas says that the team looks forward to the game, but noted that every game is different from football and "they have to prepare well for the game." He adds that the team just has to go out there and "let out feet do the talking."

The former Tampines head coach also said that they have to go into the game and respect the opponent. "As a team, they are still up there. Due respect has to be given to them, whether the Younghusbands are there or not. We just have to prepare ourselves and go into that game. We can't be complacent, and I don't think they will give us the three points. We will just have to focus."

Misagh noted that the Sparks were the ones scoring first in their previous meeting, a 2-2 draw at Rizal Memorial, so the team has been working all week on fixing that problem.

Amani Aguinaldo was suspended for that matchup, but Nawas said that they have to see if he is healthy enough to be a go for the game.

At the time of the press conference, only Dominic del Rosario was confirmed to have joined Global Cebu. When asked about what the recent Philippine international can do to help the team, Nawas described him as a "natural left-footer in his natural position of left back." The team has been lacking in that area for quite a while now. "He brings a little bit of presence to us on that area of the field, which could help us play better the way we want to play."

When asked about what del Rosario can bring, Bahadoran noted that there are not much left-footed players in the Philippines, and also acknowledged that it addresses a position weakness. He also highlighted the difficulty finding Filipino defenders, and "Dominic is one of the players we really needed, especially [since] we have fast wingers. We need someone who can supply these players and play the ball fast, forward. Dominic is a player whose feet who can run, can cross, can shoot the ball. It's good that we have him also. We will see what he can bring for Global."

The team has since announced that have snapped up Rufo Sanchez and Darryl Regala, with the former making his long overdue return to Philippine club football.

Tickets are available at the gate, with kickoff slated at 4pm. For those who cannot come to the game, one can watch via streaming, with the link for the match available below



NOTES:

Global Cebu FC at FC Meralco Manila is not just the major football match scheduled today. Later on tonight, Ceres-Negros FC attempts to be the best ASEAN club in the AFC Cup by facing off against S-League side Home United FC in the first leg of the ASEAN Zone Final.

When asked about the matchup:

Caslib: Ceres has this momentum right now of winning. And if they would really focus the way they can, I think it would be easy for them to win in their matchup.

Nawas: Of course in a final, anything can happen. The more hungrier team will win, but Ceres is a good team. Home is a good team in Singapore, but technically I think Ceres has the upper hand.

Nawas when when asked about the state of Philippine club football: I think Philippine football is getting into another level, especially with this year going professional and all that. Definitely, we have seen some improvement that can elevate the league to another level. it is a good start for being professional.

FC Meralco Manila seeks bounce back versus Global Cebu FC

Phil Younghusband in action against Ilocos United

FC Meralco Manila seeks to leave the disappointment of their 7-0 loss to Ceres-Negros FC last week as they face Global Cebu FC this afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

According to team skipper James Younghusband, "We want to make amends and bounce back. That score doesn't reflect who we are." He adds, "We need to prove something as a club. Global are the same level as Ceres, since both are in the AFC Cup. We want to show that the last game was a one-off (aberration).

Head coach Aris Caslib believes that, "People with a string rebound mentality are the ones who succeed in life."

During the pre-match press conference, Curt Dizon noted that the squad has "decided to move on," adding that they "are excited to get out there and show what we can do."

They will be facing a Global side that was fresh from being held to a goalless draw by Davao Aguilas FC at the Cebu City Sports Complex.

When asked about their upcoming opposition, Tyler Matas finds their matchup "interesting," noting that "I think of Global as a fast, counterattacking team, similar to us." Joaco Cañas expects a bruising contest, says, "They are a tough opponent and they never make it easy for you. It will be a physical game"

Caslib adds, "They are a team of transition (from offense to defense and back). They use their pace well as a unit. We will need to manage the transitions well."

The loss, combined with the other results from the recently played games, have led to the Sparks ceding solo leadership in the Philippines Football League. Kaya FC-Makati, although level on points at 23, has the edge against FC Meralco Manila on goal difference. And with Global Cebu FC just two points behind in solo third place, the winner has the chance to take the lead at the end of the day.

This was something that Misagh Bahadoran highlighted during the pre-match press conference. He says, "We have to get the three points. We will go a hundred percent. The top of the table is where Global belongs."

Kickoff for the match is at 4pm, with tickets available at the gate for PhP 20 (bleachers) and PhP 50 (grandstand). Streaming link can be seen below.



The other Philippines Football League matchup sees Ceres-Negros host a souped up Davao Aguilas FC side at 7pm. The visitors, who will be missing a bunch of players called up for national team duty in the AFC U23 Qualifiers in Phnom Penh, is embarking on an aggressive player acquisition, which included securing the likes of Matthew Hartmann and Nick O'Donnell from Global Cebu, and Jason de Jong, Jorrel Aristorenas, and Simone Rota from their upcoming opposition.

NOTES:

Both teams will be missing a player due to suspension. FC Meralco Manila will not have Alvin Sarmiento, while Global Cebu will not have Amani Aguinaldo. Marjo Allado says that Dennis Villanueva will cover for the Amani's absence.

Global has activated Darryl Roberts for this matchup, with the departure of Matthew Hartmann and Nick O'Donnell. According to Misagh and Marjo, he knows how to supply strikers.