MANILA – Kaya Iloilo posted its first victory in the 2018 Philippines Football League as it beat JPV Marikina 1-0 at the University of Makati.
Eric Giganto converted the lone goal for Kaya in the opening half but it was goalkeeper Ref Cuaresma who shone brightest with impressive thwarting in the entire match on Saturday night.
“Not the best game we played but we take this win,” said Kaya Iloilo head coach Noel Marcaida. “Every game is very important, and this result against JPV is what we need.”
Kaya Iloilo was aggressive offensively with a flurry of early attempts before finally draining one in the 15th minute. Giganto had a clear path to the goal after JPV’s Alvin Sarmiento slipped.
JPV increased its aggression in the second half with multiple attempts from near the box but Cuaresma was there to block them all.
“We were dominating in the first half, we had lots of chances. But in the second half, it didn’t go well,” said Marcaida. “We gave away so many balls. We weren’t winning second balls, and JPV were able to play their game.”
He added: “But I don’t call it (the win) lucky. I consider it hard work from all the players. It was a thrilling game. I’m proud to have Ref’s first clean sheet. He really saved us. We got our first win in the league, so we’re very happy.”
Kaya moved up to second place with 4 points – a win, a loss and a draw – while JPV remained on top with 6 points (two wins and a loss)./PN
