Sparks shock Ceres, close in on PFF-Smart semis slot

MANILA, Philippines - Loyola Meralco Sparks FC shocked three-peat-seeking Ceres-La Salle, 1-0, to close in on a semifinal berth in the PFF-Smart National Club Championship Saturday night at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Phil Younghusband, who was active on attacking all night, delivered the marginal goal in the 15th minute to lead the Sparks to their second straight win and a leading six points in Group A.

The Sparks only need a draw in their last group assignment against Kaya FC today to advance to the knockout semis.

Kaya FC bounced back from a 2-3 setback to Ceres last Friday by demolishing Laos FC in the first game, 6-0, for three points. The Kaya booters overtook Ceres (also three points on a one-win, one-loss card) at second on goal difference.

“It was all about discipline and showing that we can be a team that can play and make things really difficult for any team we play against,” said Loyola Meralco coach Simon McMenemy, whose wards seemed to be challenged playing against the two-time champs.

“It was a very disciplined and professional performance. We had a game-plan, we stuck to it and made it really difficult for them (Ceres) to break us down,” he added.

Matt Hartmann issued a fine delivery to Younghusband, who worked his way forward and rifled it home past Ceres custodian Michael Casas.

The defending champions played with 10 men from three-fourths of the match as midfielder Arnie Pasinabo was sent off for violent play against Eddie Mallari at the 32nd minute.