THE United City FC (UCFC) may have a different name and be under new management, but the club formerly known as Ceres Negros FC showcased the same dominance after clinching this year’s Philippines Football League (PFL) title.

UCFC bagged the title after a 7-1 beating of Stallion Laguna FC on Friday night, Nov. 6, 2020, at the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.

UCFC improved to 12 points, enough to win the title even if there’s one more match left in the shortened PFL season.

“As soon as we knew that Kaya had a draw, we told ourselves that we’re going to seal this (win against Stallion),” said UCFC coach Frank Muescan on the official PFL website. “Our main objective was to really win this game at all cost.”

Mike Ott opened up the match with a quick goal in the sixth minute. Stallion striker Ibrahima N’Dour equalized in the 12th minute. Japanese midfielder Takashi Odowara gave the lead back to UCFC after a goal in the 25th minute.

UCFC dominated the second half led by Spanish striker Bienvenido Marañon’s hattrick. He scored in the 58th, 66th and 71st minutes. Ott scored his second goal in the 54th and OJ Porteria also joined in the action with a goal in the 71st minute.

“It is good that even if we changed management we are still the best team in the Philippines and we showed it again today,” said Marañon.

Meanwhile, Azkals Development Team outclassed Maharlika Manila FC, 5-0. (EKA)