Manila, Philippines — If at first you don’t succeed, try again, and again, and again. The goal’s came pouring in the second half as Kaya FC-Iloilo steadily wore down Mendiola FC 1991’s staunch defense for a 6-1 final scoreline.
The Brave Men put up a valiant defensive effort throughout the match, but LBC-backed club were relentless on the attack—eventually overwhelming them through sheer numbers and time of possession.
Joining the attack in the 27th minute, Fitch Arboleda began a series of short passes with Dylan Nobiraki. The pair sliced their way inside into the danger area, combining beautifully before Dylan cut the ball back to Milad Behgandom at the six yard box for a point blank finish. (1-0)
Iloilo would only score again midway through the second half on a Daizo Horikoshi corner in the 68th minute. The league’s leading assist man sent an outswinger into the box and found Mar Diano, who overpowered his marker and buried his strike in at the far post. (2-0)
Jhan Melliza followed up with the dagger in the 74th minute, curling in a shot from just outside the six-yard box. The ball was played centrally to Arnel Amita at the penalty arc, where he used his signature close control to evade two defenders before laying it off to the right for #13. (3-0)
Some confusion took hold following a drop ball in the 80th minute. Joshua Polinag was escorted off the pitch to receive medical treatment, after which the referee resumed play with Mendiola’s backline—who were seemingly unaware of the situation.
Jarvey Gayoso easily stole the live ball and squared it to Eric Giganto who scored in the confusion, sparking complaints and a heated discussion. The match officials decided to let the goal stand; but in the spirit of fair play, Junior Sam made his way down to Kaya’s open goal to settle the issue. (4-1)
Nevertheless, the scoring continued in the 88th minute off a superb cross from Jovin Bedic into the box. Lurking up the left flank, the veteran curled the ball perfectly for Gayoso to gently tap into the far right post. (5-1)
Lastly, Eric Giganto secured his brace in additional time in spectacular fashion. The winger made a mazing run inside from the right flank before firing a powerful lefty strike from the edge of the penalty area—brushing past the keeper’s gloves to ricochet off the left crossbar and in. (6-1)
Iloilo sweep the season series with Mendiola, increasing their lead in the standings to five points with two games remaining.
Starting Lineup:
CF: Behgandom
LMF: D. Horikoshi, CMF: Nobiraki, CMF: Melliza, RMF: T. Horikoshi
DMF: Angeles
LB: Arboleda, CB: Rota, CB: Menzi, RB: Diano
GK: Banzon
Subs: Amita, Bedic, Casambre, Gayoso, Giganto, Bata
Coach Yu Hoshide used four substitutions on the afternoon:
- Arnel Amita checked in for Tamon Horikoshi in the 61st minute.
- Jarvey Gayoso entered the game for Milad Behgandom in the 67th minute.
- Jovin Bedic and Eric Giganto came in for Dylan Nobiraki and Jhan Melliza in the 76th minute.
