Global leans on El Habib’s goal, beats Stallion 1-0

MANILA, Philippines – Global FC drew strength from Sudanese striker Izzo El Habib's game-winning second half goal to edge Stallion FC, 1-0, and seize the solo lead in the First Division of the United Football League at the McKinley Hill grounds in Taguig City.

With the match appearing to head into a scoreless draw, El Habib came through big and cashed in on his opportunity with that spectacular 78th minute rocket that sealed it for the Global booters.

It was El Habib's sixth goal of the season that proved enough to catapult Global, the defending League title-holder, back and alone on top with 21 match points on seven straight victories.

The loss sent Stallion, the reigning Cup champion, from a share of the lead with Global to solo third spot with 18 points on six victories against a loss.

Loyola Meralco Sparks zoomed to No. 2 after trouncing Green Archers United-Globe FC, 2-0, thanks to goals by Korean Jeong Byeong Yeol and prolific Fil-Brit Mark Hartmann.

Jeong opened up the scoring with a 28th minute goal to give Loyola a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Then Hartmann struck like a lightning with an 81st minute goal, zapping the last fight out of the Archers, who fell to their fifth defeat against a win and a draw for four points.

Hartmann's goal hiked his total to seven, the most this season thus far.