Mendiola FC 1991 clinched a 1-0 win over Maharlika FC in a tight contest to secure their spot in the league’s top ten in Sunday’s PFL action at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
This result handed Maharlika their third consecutive defeat, keeping them in ninth place in the league. On the other hand, Mendiola secured back-to-back wins for the first time this season, solidifying their position in 10th place.
Mendiola’s new additions proved their worth early on, as debutant Melvic Pitogo linked up with captain Hamed Hajimehdi and Seyedsajad Mohebizadeh to pressure the Maharlika defense.
Mohebizadeh nearly scored just before halftime, beating Maharlika keeper Mamadou Sene, but Maharlika’s defense managed to clear out the ball, keeping the score level at halftime and preserving his clean sheet momentarily.
Both teams had opportunities to break the deadlock in the second half. Hajimehdi’s dangerous free kicks in the 61st and 63rd minutes came close while Maharlika’s best chances came from Lucas del Rosario, whose shot hit the side netting in the 58th minute, and Gael Basana who fired just inside the penalty area at the 70th minute.
Mendiola finally broke through in the 76th minute when a deep cross found Mohebizadeh, who finished with a half-volley past Sene.