VISITING Japan Philippines Voltes (JPV) Marikina FC stunned the home squad Ceres Negros FC with a 2-0 win on Saturday night, June 23, in the Philippines Football League at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City.
It was a perfect evening for JPV to avenge its 4-1 loss against the same team on Wednesday, June 20.
Both have a tough scoreless first half as Busmen’s keeper Michael Casas defended his post very well while JVP’s backline successfully denied the host’s attempts.
Casas' good game ended after he was given a red card in the 31st minute for parrying Kennedy Uzoka’s attempt from outside the box, reducing the Busmen to play with 10 men.
Ceres FC also played with 10 players in their June 23 match after OJ Porteria was sent off the pitch together with Marikina head coach Dan Padernal.
As consequence, Japanese striker Takumi Uesato gave way for a veteran keeper and former Azkals custodian Eduard Sacapaño who took charge of the post. The Bago City-hailed keeper succeeded in holding the goal with a clean sheet in the next 27 minutes but long layoff actively caught up in the later stage.
Busmen got their best chance to score from the penalty box but Stephan Schrock missed his shot as JPV keeper Nelson Gasic jumped in the right spot.
Later, eventual “Man of the Match” J Baguiro broke away in a counter attack, beating Sean Patrick Kane before sending home their first goal over Sacapaño in the 58th minute.
Ceres tried to connect an equalizer but JPV’s defense was tight to make open passes and hit clear targets.
With the Busmen struggling to find its mark, Uzoka sealed JPV’s second goal in the 88th minute off a pass from Baguiro, a former Ceres player and product of Negros football program.
Ceres FC, despite the loss, remained on top of the table with 11 wins including pairs of draws and defeats for 35 points while JPV remained steady at No. 5 with four victories, a draw, and 10 losses.
JPV assistant coach Frank Muescan lauded his players for the efforts and sacrifices. “We admit that the team is struggling but, the players gave their all. This is a test of character,” he said.
Baguiro, meanwhile, thanked everyone who supported them. “I am happy to score and win another match in Panaad. It’s always great to play here,” he said the San Carlos City-native.
“Despite some bullying and bashing online, we just came and play football,” he added.
Ceres Coach Risto Vidakovic, on the other hand, said he’s still proud of the team despite having a bad game. “We have to forget it and think about the next game,” he added.