Defending champions Kaya FC-Iloilo finally found a worthy challenger in One Taguig FC. The game ended in a goalless draw, 0-0, with both teams gaining only one point.
The game commenced with Taguig pressing against a possession-based Kaya FC. Ingreso showed his quality and experience early in the game. It was in the 15th minute when Kaya finally created a chance through a Gayoso cross, but the run was mistimed by Komaki Shuto.
Esso, Menzi & Gayoso all had their attempts, but they were way off. Former ADT player Mar Diano was booked with a yellow for a foul on fellow ADT teammate Yrick Gallantes. One Taguig FC had a run with Gallantes crossing to Shimomura, but his header was just wide.
The first half ended after a wild scissor-kick attempt from Stephan Schrock, who was coming back from an injury, and an on-target attempt by Melliza, which went straight to Kammeraad.
The second half started with no changes from either team. A tactical battle between opposing managers was now visible as things got physical with their playstyles.
Yrick Gallantes, who played the game of his life, did a good job marking Jhanjhan Melliza. Schrock, meanwhile, was booked for a foul on Melliza. The reigning Copa and league champions attacked more in this half but couldn’t connect in the final third.
Eric Esso fouled Kevin Ingreso and was booked after committing too many fouls throughout the game. Kaya FC almost scored with Yamazaki being unmarked, but his header narrowly missed the goal. Yamazaki followed his attempt with another shot, but it hit the side-netting this time.
Tuason and Amita came in for Taguig for more attacking opportunities. Kaya answered by deploying Dokyung and Swainston for added attacking prowess. Referee Krizmark Nañola initially called a penalty kick for Kaya as Yamazaki was brought down by Custodio’s challenge. However, the main referee discussed things with the assistant referee and overturned his call right after.
Kaya’s left-wing player Komaki Shuto was replaced by Robert Lopez Mendy. Taguig had their first on-target attempt with Yannick Tuason, but it went straight into the hands of Walid Birrou. After a great game, Yrick Gallantes was subbed off due to cramps and was replaced by Jordan Jarvis.
PMNFT forward Jarvey Gayoso suffered a cramp in his right leg, prompting Yu Hoshide to replace him with veteran Jovin Bedic. El Habib was subbed in for Patrick Grogg too. Six minutes were added, and shortly after, Lopez Mendy and the entire Kaya FC squad, together with the Ultras Kayas, were upset with the referee for a controversial non-call on Kammeraad’s clearance of the ball. Ingreso clipped fellow national team teammate Mark Swainston and was booked with a yellow, Taguig’s second. The game ended after a Yamazaki free kick that ended up in the gloves of Quincy Kammeraad.
Kaya FC-Iloilo 0-0 One Taguig FC
Player of the Match: Stephan Schrock (One Taguig FC)
Chis Adea Yes, my name is Chis. Turning freshman this year. Elementary and Junior HS Valedictorian. Sports fan since 3 years old. Once dreamt of being a sports commentator. 1/5 of The Half Space. @chisballph on X and IG.
