Kaya nips Pasargad to stay in UFL title hunt

By Alder Almo | philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines – Kaya took care of business to stay in the title hunt as it nipped Pasargad, 2-1, in the 2012 United Football League action tonight at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Kaya captain Aly Borromeo, who is slowly coming back to form since his return from injury, came through with the first goal off a penalty kick in the 20th minute.

Borromeo was inserted back into the starting lineup after fellow Philippine Azkal Jason Sabio was suspended alongside Masa Omura for accumulated yellow cards.

The ploy worked as the burly team captain put Kaya ahead early in the match.

Playing with a sense of urgency early on following Loyola Meralco Sparks' loss to Air Force last night, Kaya played true to form in the first half.

Adrian Semblat found himself open near the mouth of the goal and quickly fired to double the lead in the 31st minute.

Pasargad, who shocked Loyola and Stallion here in the second round, came out aggressively from the break.

Kaya slowed down and Pasargad took advantage when Mohammed Ohadi sliced the lead with his goal in the 51st minute.

 

Kaya held its ground the rest of the way to escape with the win that pushed them back on top of the table.

Kaya overtook Global on top after earning its 39th point.

Global slid down to second with 38 points while the Sparks trail behind with 35 points in a three-way race to the league title with both teams still have a match on hand.