The Los Valientes Hijos de Mendiola triumphed over bottom-of-the-league Manila Montet with a resounding 6-0 victory in a prime-time match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Manila Montet fielded a different lineup, with first-choice goalkeeper Mark James Jones notably absent from the starting eleven. In contrast, Mendiola FC 1991 had only three substitutes available for the game. Montet predominantly attacked down the right flank in the early stages, but their first chance was cleared by Marc Pellejo of Mendiola.
Both Nicolai Abalos and Hiromasa Ishikawa had their attempts on goal, with Abalos’ shot going off-target and Ishikawa’s shot just saved by Montet’s GK. Referee Michael Barajas was vigilant in calling fouls to prevent physical altercations between the teams. Despite a close contest in the 15th minute, Mendiola had a promising opportunity, which was stopped by a strong defensive play from Mamonong.
Iver John Siose came close with an on-target attempt that lacked power. Tempers flared as Jon Nebreja of Mendiola expressed frustration towards some Montet players, resulting in his goal on the 35th minute, who capitalized on his height advantage with a header coming from an Ishikawa cross.
Reggie Sulit attempted a direct free-kick but was denied by Pellejo. Mamonong made a crucial save to deny Ishikawa’s shot. Montet intensified their efforts and became aggressive that they nearly scored with an on-target header just before halftime.
The second half commenced with Kirk Eman See’s shot on target, saved by Mamonong, only for Nebreja to pounce on the rebound. Shortly after, Kirk Eman See showcased his skill with a remarkable volley off an Ishikawa cross.
A daring scissor kick attempt from Montet’s Reggie Sulit brought back memories of Stephan Schrock’s similar effort in the previous matchweek. Kirk Eman See came close to adding another goal but was closed out by Montet’s second-choice goalkeeper. That was his last save as Montet main star Mark James Jones came in for Rafael Mamonong.
Ishikawa capitalized on an error from Montet’s defenders to score Mendiola’s fourth goal. Despite Jones’s heroics in goal, he couldn’t prevent Nebreja from completing his hat-trick after saving Ishikawa’s initial attempt.
Jones continued to showcase his shot-stopping abilities, limiting Mendiola to a 5-0 lead. However, Ishikawa proved too strong for Montet’s defense, curling in a superb goal. Sulit received a yellow card for a tactical foul to prevent Ishikawa from completing his hat-trick.
Despite four minutes of added time, neither team could alter the scoreline. Mendiola FC 1991 claimed a crucial three points with their 6-0 victory over Manila Montet FC. Jon Nebreja, Mendiola’s hat-trick hero, rightfully earned the title of the game’s man of the match.
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.
