Loyola Meralco tests Stallion; Army battles Air Force

Source: Cedelf P. Tupas | Philippine Daily Inquirer

BACK at full-strength, Loyola Meralco looks to reclaim the lead in the United Football League as the Sparks clash with a shorthanded Stallion squad at the University of Makati.

Kickoff is at 4 p.m. with the Sparks needing a victory to move ahead of Global as the league heads into the homestretch.

Global, two points ahead of Loyola with 30 points, is scheduled to play Sunday night against Nomads Auction Manila.

Air Force Phoenix and Army Fritz and Macziol—two teams with proud histories yet nursing only slim title hopes this season—clash at 2 p.m.

The Airmen hope to end a two-game slump, while Army is still in search of its first win in three matches in the second round.

Chieffy Caligdong remains doubtful for Air Force because of a hamstring problem, but Ian Araneta and Yanti Barsales are still around to lead the attack.

Midfielder Mark Hartmann and goalkeeper Ref Cuaresma return to the Sparks lineup after missing the 4-0 victory over Army last Sunday due to suspension for accumulated yellow cards.

Stallion has struggled since going on a three-game win streak to start the season, picking up just 13 of a maximum 24 points in its last eight matches and has fallen to fourth spot.