Global caps UFL romp with rout vs Stallion

MANILA, Philippines - With the title already in the bag, Global still went all out and routed Stallion Giligan, 9-0, to cap its successful campaign in the United Football League Division I Thursday night.

Izo El Habbib bagged a hat-trick with fellow forwards Mark Hartmann and Milad Behgandom turning in a brace each to underscore the Global booters’ domination of the Stallion side.

In the earlier match, Joaco Canas came through with a dramatic header on the 93rd to lift Loyola Meralco Sparks to second spot over Kaya.

“I have to mention Napo (Bustillo). Because that’s the one downside. He picked up a serious injury in the first half. He’s a part of what we’ve changed at Global in the last two thirds of the season,” said Global head coach Leigh Manson, referring to Bustillo’s knee injury, which saw his leg buckle while stretching for a tackle.

“Apart from that, I’m very very proud. The players have been outstanding. They’ve bought in to how we want to play football – working hard off the ball, passing the ball, trying to really play a team game, and be hungry. They got the success they’re due because collectively, I believe they’re the strongest group of players. If they work harder than the opponents and they use the ball, they’re going to win more than they lose,” added Manson.

Daisuke Sato scored the solitary goal of the first half, smashing in a rebound off Raoul Martinez’s rocket from way out. The Mexican midfielder added the second goal in the second half, setting up Global’s troika to handle the rest of the damage.

Global owner Dan Palami sees his club’s triumph as impetus to drive Philippine football’s constantly improving quality even further.

“Well it’s good to lift the trophy once again. It’s been a dream of ours for the past two years, so the culmination of the frustrations and efforts finally came to fruition tonight,” said Palami, who also manages the Philippine Azkals.

“We’re quite happy that we’ve been able to respond to the challenge of getting back the title in this manner. Now that we’ve set a bit of a standard, I’m sure the other teams will come up with their own rebuilding,” added Palami.