Dynamic Herb Cebu continued its title aspirations after securing its third straight win at the expense of Mendiola FC, 1-0, in the lone Philippines Football League brought to you by Qatar Airways match last Saturday at the PFF National Training Center.
Rintaro Hama fired Cebu to 37 points after his 23rd minute strike ensured that they remain in the title race as they now have one game in hand to Kaya’s five point lead at the top.
“We’re happy for the three points,” said Cebu’s Turkish head coach Mehmet Kakil, “But the game was not satisfying. Nevertheless, we’re one game behind Kaya in the standings.”
It was all Cebu from the get go. Ivan Ouano had an headed effort from Hama’s cross in the sixth minute, but could only send it straight to Michael Asong. The Cebu forward had a second chance with a curling effort in the 15th minute but was unable to convert.
A well taken lob by Marius Kore from his own half found Hama behind the defense to score his second goal for the club in the 23rd minute.
Serge Kaole went close for Mendiola with the clock winding down in the first half. The midfielder muscled his way to the box, but was unable to convert as Jun Badelic was able to make the save.
Hama almost netted his second goal in the 52nd minute, but Asong was there to collect the ball as it was going in to the top corner. Mert Altinoz also went close from the corner five minutes later but could not send the shot on target.