Kaya FC–Iloilo and Ceres Negros Set for Explosive Clash in Batangas After losing the lead against their rival last month, Kaya FC–Iloilo looks to make amends on Saturday.

Ceres Negros vs Kaya FC–Iloilo
7pm | Saturday, August 3, 2019
Aboitiz Pitch, Lipa, Batangas

In a highly anticipated top of the table clash, Kaya FC–Iloilo and Ceres Negros are set to face off on Saturday, August 3, at the Aboitiz Pitch in Lipa, Batangas. Kickoff for the second meeting between the rivals is set at 7PM, and will be streamed live over PFLTV.ph. Iloilo enter the match looking to make amends after suffering defeat against the reigning Philippines Football League champions last month.

“We’re all ready for Saturday’s game, everyone’s sharp in training. We are more motivated going into this one because of what happened in our last meeting. We are ready to make a comeback,” said Kaya FC–Iloilo captain Jovin Bedic.

There was plenty of player movement for Ceres over the transfer window, including the signing of former Kaya star Robert Lopez Mendy, who finished best striker, and helped secure the Copa Paulino Alcantara for Iloilo last year.

“It’s not always the best feeling when you have to play against last year’s best striker,” said Bedic, who enjoyed a spectacular partnership with Robert in 2018. “We know what Mendy can do. He’s a very dangerous guy when given room to operate.”

“Playing against a team that has fluid movement in attack with an addition of a player that has pace and quality finishing, it will really be a test on our end defensively,” added Kaya head coach Noel Marcaida. “But I believe that my players are ready to deliver a quality performance. We’re excited for the challenge to face a reinforced Ceres Negros on Saturday.”

Both teams are tied at 22 points heading into the match, although Negros hold a far superior goal difference, while having played a game less. Saturday’s clash is seen as a crucial contest in determining this year’s PFL title.

“I think the key will be the communication inside the field. We have to control our emotions against them, and to not lose focus until the last whistle,” said Bedic.

“Determination, consistency, and patience will be vital in getting maximum points,” added Marcaida.