By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Host Negros Occidental Regional Football Association (NORFA) strengthened its bid for a spot on the national stage after defeating archrival Iloilo-Guimaras Regional Football Association (IGRFA), 3-1, in the PFF U-16 Visayas qualifiers in Negros Occidental’s San Carlos City.

After a scoreless first half marked by disciplined defensive play from both sides, NORFA broke the deadlock early in the second half.

Jan Ryle Tañaña scored in the 47th minute to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.

IGRFA responded quickly, however, as Benedict Simon Sumagaysay equalized just two minutes later in the 49th minute, briefly shifting the momentum in favor of the Iloilo-Guimaras side.

NORFA regained control following tactical adjustments by the coaching staff, allowing the hosts to dominate the midfield.

Tañaña then restored NORFA’s lead in the 69th minute, scoring his second goal of the match.

With IGRFA pressing forward in search of another equalizer, NORFA sealed the victory late.

Van Dannielle Benia from Negros Occidental’s Pontevedra town found the net in the 85th minute to complete the 3-1 win.

The result reshuffled the standings in the PFF U-16 Visayas qualifiers and marked a significant step forward for NORFA in its push for national qualification./ASC, WDJ