Casas ejected, replaced by keeper from Bago City

By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

JPV Marikina FC defeated a 10-man Ceres-Negros FC, 2-0, in their Philippines Football League (PFL) match at the Panaad Park and Stadium over the weekend.

After referees rule Ceres keeper Louie Casas committed an intentional handball outside the box just after the 31st minute, he was shown a red card and ejected from the match. In order to accommodate for a new goalkeeper, striker Takumi Uesato was subbed out for replacement keeper Eduard Sacapaño, who is originally from Bago City.

In their match against JPV Marikina last week, the Bacolod City-based club also played with 10 after a halftime altercation between JPV coach Dan Padernal and Ceres midfielder OJ Porteria resulted in both being ejected from the match.

Ceres went on to win, 4-1.

The Negrense club nearly opened scoring at the start of the second half, with a penalty opportunity for midfielder Stephan Schröck in the 48th minute; however, his attempt was saved by goalie Nelson Gasic.

JPV forward J Baguioro scored in the 61st minute. The score was later doubled by JPV striker Kennedy Uzoka in the 87th minute.

“I’m happy to score and win another match [at the] Panaad,” said Baguioro, who is originally from San Carlos City. “It’s always great to play here.”

Following the loss, Ceres remains atop the PFL table with 35 points, nine ahead of second place Kaya FC-Iloilo, who have one match in hand./JSG, WDJ