Loyola blanks Green Archers to keep record perfect

Karl Decena, InterAksyon.com Tuesday, January 28, 2014 · 7:55 pm

The Loyola Meralco Sparks pulled away for a 3-nil victory against Green Archers United Globe to remain undefeated in the United Football League Tuesday at Emperador Stadium.

Star striker Phil Younghusband stamped his class for Loyola, scoring one goal and dishing an assist to help the Sparks notch their fourth straight win.

Younghusband opened the scoring by converting off an assist by Boyet Cañedo at the 16th minute to put Loyola ahead, 1-nil.

The Azkals star then showed his passing skills moments after as Younghusband dished a back pass to Matt Hartmann, who sank a goal from the left flank at the 35th minute to give Loyola a comfortable 2-nil halftime lead.

Green Archers had a golden chance to trim its deficit at the 62nd minute when Robert Mendy made an interception and found himself open for a goal.

With Loyola goalkeeper Baba Sampana out of position to defend the shot, Loyola defender Joaco Cañas used his right hand to deflect Mendy’s shot right in front of the goal.

But match referees failed to see Cañas’ handball violation, denying Green Archers a penalty kick.

The woes continued for Green Archers after some of its players, including star winger Chieffy Caligdong, were forced to exit the match due to injuries, further giving Loyola advantage.

Jake Morallo found the back of the net at the 90th minute to seal the victory for the Sparks.

Loyola tightened its grip on top of the table with four straight victories to start the season for 12 points.

Green Archers suffered its first loss after three consecutive draws for three point.