Kaya FC–Iloilo Survives Late JPV Onslaught to Earn First Win

Ref Cuaresma’s heroics in between the sticks was crucial in handing Kaya FC–Iloilo their first win of the 2018 PFL season. The veteran keeper kept his nerve amidst a flurry of attacks from JPV Marikina in the second half, ensuring Eric Giganto’s early goal was enough to get all three points at the University of Makati on Saturday night.

“We were dominating in the first half, we had lots of chances. But in the second half it didn’t go well. We gave away so many balls. We weren’t winning second balls, and JPV were able to play their game,” said Kaya head coach Noel Marcaida. “But I don’t call it (the win) lucky. I consider it hard work from all the players. It was a thrilling game. I’m proud to have Ref’s first clean sheet. He really saved us. We got our first win in the league, so we’re very happy.”

The match started in perfect fashion for Kaya. Right from the opening whistle, the hosts took and control and dictated the tempo. Just 13 minutes into the contest, a slip from JPV’s Alvin Sarmiento presented Eric Giganto with a clear path to goal. With only the keeper to beat, the young standout clinically fired the ball into the bottom left corner for the opener. After the goal, the hosts continued to impose their game. But right before half-time, Kennedy Uzoka’s snapshot brought out the first of Ref Cuaresma’s many saves in the game. It turned out to be a sign of things to come, as JPV carved out chance after chance in the second half.

“We made a few adjustments at half-time and they turned out very well. We were able to get lots of chances,” said JPV’s Dan Padernal. “We lost three points today, but the boys worked very hard until the very end. I’m very proud of them. They had chances, but we were just a bit unlucky. I’m still satisfied, and looking forward to our next game.”

It took Marikina just five minutes after the restart to threaten from a free kick. Shortly after, Cuaresma picked off a crucial pass as two JPV players were bearing down on goal. He made another fine stop on a one-on-one on the hour mark, just moments before snatching a goal-bound header from John Celiz. His timely interventions earned him his first clean sheet of the season, and Man of the Match honors as well.

“I congratulate the team for all the hard work. It’s been a luxury for all the keepers to be here at Kaya. Coach Noel’s not giving us an easy time. Hard work was placed in the game. And being one of the titos of the PFL, it’s important to put up a good performance. Overall, it was a collective effort and a good win. I’m proud of everyone,” said Cuaresma.

Alfred Osei’s sending off for a second bookable offense, with five minutes remaining, compounded Kaya’s struggles in the second half. But Ref’s on point shot stopping, and the rest of the team’s tireless effort, were enough to hold on for all three points.