Cebu FC beats league leader Kaya FC

CEBU FC inched a bit closer to the top spot of the Philippines Football League (PFL) 2022/2023 season after a 3-2 win over league leader Kaya FC-Iloilo last Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023 at the Iloilo Sports Complex in Iloilo City.

Daniel Gadia drew first blood and gave Cebu FC the early lead with a goal in the 24th minute coming off a corner kick by crafty midfielder Mert Altinoz, the last of remaining Turkish player from last year’s squad.

Diazo Horkioshi, the league’s top scorer, once again showed that he’s the best goal scorer in the country after hitting the equalizer with free kick nine minutes later.

Gadia, however, was sent off from the field along with Kaya FC defender Simone Rota after both players were slapped with a red card for a scuffle.

Cebu FC’s newest addition, towering striker Leaford Allen, immediately made his presence felt in his debut for the Cebu-based club after the go-ahead goal just before halftime for a 2-1 lead by the Gentle Giants.

Defender Jacob Liao hit the back of the net with a header in the 55th minute coming from a beautifully launched free kick by JB Borlongan.

Horikoshi, however, wouldn’t give up and trimmed down the lead to just a single goal after scoring past Cebu FC goalkeeper Ace Villanueva inside the box.

Kaya FC aggressively attacked Cebu FC’s defense and nearly scored in a couple of good attempts from Jarvey, Mar Diano and Michael Menzi.

With the withdrawal of United City FC, Cebu FC is now at second place with 24 points from seven wins, three draws and a loss. Kaya FC still remained at the top with 30 points from 10 wins and three defeats.

Cebu FC, however, is behind Kaya FC by two games. Kaya FC has already played 13 matches, while Cebu FC has played 11.

Azkals Development Team is at third with 15 points, followed by Stallion Laguna FC also with 15 but is behind on goal difference.

Mendiola FC 1991 is fifth with six points, while Maharlika Manila FC is at the bottom with just a single point.

Kaya FC takes on Mendiola FC, while ADT faces Maharlika FC on the next play date on Feb. 25.