Loyola Meralco nips Green Archers to stay unbeaten

MANILA, Philippines – Loyola Meralco Sparks rode on another strong performance from Phil Younghusband as it waylaid Green Archers United-Globe, 3-0, to remain unscathed in four matches in the First Division of the United Football League at the Emperador Stadium in McKinley Hill Tuesday night.

Younghusband, one of the stars of the Philippine Azkals, came through with the goal and an assist that helped the Sparks nail their fourth straight victory to solidify its place at the helm with 12 match points –  or a whopping six points clear of closest pursuers Kaya FC, Pachanga Diliman FC and Global FC.

And Loyola coach Vince Santos is happy with the way his side is performing.

"I think more than being at the top of the table, it’s the way the team is playing," said Santos.

Younghusband came through early, guiding Robert Canedo's low ball into the top corner and straight to the net to open up the scoring on the 16th minute before he flicked a pass straight into Matthew Hartmann, who sent it straight into the net and past GAU goalie Patrick Deyto in the 35th to give Loyola a 2-0 lead before halftime.

Loyola then went flat in the second half as GAU almost got a goal on the 60th minute when Robert Mendy's shot hit the hand of Loyola defender Joaco Canas.

Match officials, however, didn't spot the infraction, letting the Sparks escape a penalty as well as a red card from being shown to their centerback.

Jake Morallo sealed the deal after he unleashed a rocket in added time.

In the other match, Stallion relied on an own goal from Kaya left-back Andrew Liauw on the 36th minute to escape with a 1-0 victory that sent it solo fifth spot with five points on a win and two draws.

Kaya, bankrolled by LBC, was left stranded at second with six points.