By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

Ceres-Negros FC successfully blanked Ilocos United FC for a second time, winning 5-0 over the weekend at the Panaad Park and Stadium and moving up to third place on the Philippines Football League (PFL) table.
“Man of the Match” Ceres FC midfielder Stephan Schröck scored a brace, with fellow midfielder Bienvenido Marañón, striker Fernando Rodríguez, and defender Carli de Murga each adding to the goal tally.
The first four goals were all scored within the opening 35 minutes of the match.
“The four wins and one draw this September were excellent,” said Ceres FC coach Risto Vidaković during the post-match press conference. “I’m proud to be the coach of this team.”
Meanwhile, Schröck credited the quality of the club.
“It’s not that difficult with the players we have,” he said. “Everybody knows what to do and how to play.”
The midfielder also offered appreciation for Vidaković, saying, “Our coach did very well and it’s a blessing for Philippine football.”
For Ilocos United coach Ian Gillan, he echoed his praises from the pre-match press conference, calling Ceres “the best team in the competition.”
“They have quality players and play good football,” he explained. “They are one of the strongest teams in the Southeast Asia.”
The Negrense club next meets Kaya FC-Makati on October 14, who are currently in second place. Ceres is six points behind them, however, they also have seven games in hand./WDJ