Mendiola FC 1991 spoiled United City FC’s final domestic match before the AFC Champions League after forcing a scoreless draw on Monday, April 4, 2022 in the Copa Paulino Alcantara at the PFF National Training Centre in Carmona, Cavite.
The Bravemen leaned on a solid performance from goalkeeper Michael Asong, who prevented the 2020 Philippines Football League champions from finding the back of the net that forced both clubs to share the spoils after the final whistle.
Asong was undeterred as he made key stops, including a few attempts from Mark Hartmann and Kenshiro Daniels as Mendiola posted its first point after dropping all two matches in last year’s Copa and the first two matches of the current edition.
It was a well-deserved one for Mendiola, especially facing a United City side that went into the contest favored to get all three points, but it was not the case and United City settled with ending its stretch of four matches in 11 days with two wins and two draws.
United City, however, was able to extend its hold on top spot in the seven-team table with eight points, four clear of second-running Kaya-Iloilo, the winner of the 2021 cup tournament.
Now UCFC sets its sights on the continental stage as it takes on South Korea’s Jeonnam Dragons, Australia’s Melbourne City and host BG Pathum United in Group G of the Champions League later this month.
Mendiola could have ended up with an upset win as early as the seventh minute when referee Meliton Pelayo pointed at the spot after Pete Forrosuelo was called for a foul on Sam Junior. Ashley Flores, however, couldn’t capitalize as his penalty sailed above the goalpost.
United City could have taken the lead in the 13th but Daniels did not take advantage of Asong’s goalkeeping mistake while trying to intercept Curt Dizon’s cross and the attempt was off the mark.
Asong stopped two Hartmann shots during the first half while wide attempts by both teams forced Mendiola and United City to go into the break still knotted even.
Mendiola had a chance in the 54th during a counterattack with Flores and Aaron Altiche linking up. But that chance ended with Junior’s shot going straight into the hands of United City goalkeeper Matt Silva.
Junior tried to make it a one-on-one situation with Silva but a tackle by Forrosuelo past midfield was declared as a clean attempt by the official and Mendiola was denied an opportunity in the 84th.