Football
Kaya defeats Stallion to stake claim on crown, awaits Global result
AKTV file photo/Mark Dimalanta
Kaya FC did its part in its drive to win the United Football League crown, taking care of business against Penson Stallion Giligan’s, 1-0, in Championship Tuesday action at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Despite the win, Kaya’s fate depends on the result of Global’s match against the Loyola Meralco Sparks, which is being played as of press time. Global will win the UFL crown as long as it does not lose to Loyola.
Kaya controlled the first half, attacking the Stallion defense resulting in many chances at goal. After attempts by Joshua Beloya, Eric Dagroh and Anton del Rosario all failed to hit the back of the net, Kaya finally nailed a goal at the 43rd minute courtesy of Nate Burkey on a nifty assist by Beloya for a 1-0 edge at halftime.
After the break, Stallion tried to claw back, taking advantage of Kaya’s defensive miscues to get shot after shot at goal, but the fourth-place squad couldn’t convert on multiple opportunities.
Team captain Reuben Doctora Jr. was slapped with his second yellow card after a hard hit on Kaya goalkeeper Saba Garmaroudi, leaving Stallion with just 10 men to finish the match.
With a man advantage, Kaya also had several chances to increase its lead, but failed to score a goal.
