Kaya FC-Iloilo showcased their championship prowess as they fended off a late comeback from Stallion Laguna FC, to secure a vital 3-2 victory in Sunday’s PFL action at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Kaya, which began the day behind to Dynamic Herb Cebu FC retook the lead with 34 points, with just two matches left in the season. The loss for Stallion Laguna left them out of the title race.
Kaya had the upper hand in the first half, but left frustrated by Stallion’s defense, until deep in first half stoppage time when Jhan Melliza struck a precise shot to the far post.
Audie Menzi doubled Kaya’s lead with a header from Melliza’s corner kick in the 58th minute to put the defending champions up by two goals.
With a two goal disadvantage on their heels, Coach Ernie Nierras’ side sparked a comebackin the 70th minute as PFL debutant Pancho Gomez scored his first league goal off a pass from Junior Ngong Sam.
However, Kaya restored their two goal advantage in the 88th minute when Jarvey Gayoso rifled a stunning left-footed strike that hit the post on the way in. It was the Kaya forward’s 22nd goal of the season further solidifying his position in the race for the Golden Boot.
Stallion still showed some fight as Abraham Placito made it 3-2 late in the match, but Kaya held on for the win