By: Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
In a tightly-contested defensive battle between Kaya FC and Stallion FC, Kaya’s experience allowed them to grab the win as they struck one goal to win the match, 1-0, in the 2019 Philippines Football League.
In a bid to sop the high-octane Iloilo team, Stallion put up an efficient defensive scheme in the first minutes of the game, preventing Kaya from getting an opening.
It was not until the 17th minute mark when Jordan Mintah once again showed flashes of brilliance, cruising past Laguna’s clogging defense for their lone goal.
Shirmar Felongco was later forced off due to injury, threatening the hosts’ control of the contest.
Janrick Soriano deputized seamlessly at right back, however, allowing Iloilo to enter the break with a slim but comfortable advantage.
As expected, the match was a physical affair. But unlike previous encounters, the officiating didn’t allow for emotions to flare.
Set pieces were common throughout, allowing Daniels to threaten with his deliveries into the box.
Although Mintah and Darryl Roberts won more than their fair share of aerial duels, none led to any clear cut attempts on goal.
Stallion had a chance to equalize shortly before the final whistle, but Ruben Doctora could only hit the crossbar with his header from a long throw.
With that spurned opportunity went Laguna’s hopes to share the spoils.
Although ultimately an important victory for Kaya, captain Jovin Bedic needed to be stretchered off before the match was through, providing a slight damper on what was otherwise a successful and professional performance.
With the victory, Iloilo now has four consecutive wins into their 2-week break.
