UFL: Stallion foils Loyola’s plan to return to top with 1-1 draw

MANILA, Philippines – Start of a decline?

A tenacious Stallion FC derailed Loyola Meralco’s bid to reclaim the top spot as they held the Sparks to a one-all draw in the 2014 United Football League Thursday, March 27 at the Emperador Stadium in Taguig City.

Coach Ernie Nierras’ wards erased Loyola’s one-goal cushion as Ruben Doctora found the back of the net moments before halftime, keeping Phil Younghusband and company from overtaking Global FC for first place in the standings.

Still licking their wounds from a shock defeat to Green Archers United last weekend, the Sparks saw its bid for a first UFL League title dealt another blow as Stallion extended its unbeaten run to 4 games, improving to a 6-5-4 slate after this match for 23 points.

Prior to this game, Younghusband, Joo Young Lee, and Freddy Gonzalez collectively have scored more goals compared to the whole Stallion side but the Iloilo-based crew did a spectacular job of restricting Loyola’s lethal trio – who have a total of 28 goals this season – to just a goal after tonight’s final whistle.

The Azkals striker Younghusband opened the scoring when he curled the ball beyond Wilson Munoz’ reach and into the net for 1-nil, 31 minutes into the game.

Loyola’s celebration was cut short, though, as Younghusband’s Azkals teammate Doctora equalized just before the break, restoring parity in the 43rd minute.

Coach Vincent Santos’ boys then tried to retake the lead – and the top position in the table – but shots from Younghusband and Rodrigue Nembot either sailed harmlessly wide off the post or was stopped by Munoz.

The draw preserved Global – who are perched at a league-best 34 points – at first place in the championship race while Loyola trails them closely at 33. Kaya (27), Stallion, and Green Archers United (19) complete the top 5.

Loyola will return to action on April 1 in a blockbuster matchup with Kaya FC while Stallion faces Global next on April 2. – Rappler.com