By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

Ceres-Negros FC opened their 2018 Copa Paulino Alcantara campaign with a 3-1 loss to Davao Aguilas FC over the weekend at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Davao took a 2-0 lead after the first half, with midfielder Matthew Hartmann scoring in the 38th minute and striker Phil Younghusband doubling the lead two minutes later.

Early into the second half, a penalty was awarded after Davao was called for a handball in the area. Ceres forward Blake Powell managed to convert the penalty successfully, bringing it back to the one-goal deficit.

However, in the 76th minute, Davao midfielder Tahj Minniecon added to the tally, putting his club up 3-1.

Ceres next faces Stallion Laguna FC on September 15 and 19./JSG, WDJ