Loyola Meralco blanks Global XI

MANILA, Philippines - Loyola Meralco Sparks overpowered fancied Global FC, 4-0, while Kaya FC edged Pachanga Diliman, 2-1, to kick off their respective campaigns in the United Football League 2014 at the Emperador Stadium Tuesday night.

Coming off their first championship in the Cup last year, the Sparks surprised everyone by dominating the Global side tipped to contend for the League crown.

Korean Lee Joo Young and Phil Younghusband gave Loyola a two-goal cushion going into halftime before Freddy Gonzales and Matthew Hartmann scored one each to seal the victory for Loyola, which surged ahead with three match points.

“We were able to utilize our speed well,” said Loyola coach Vince Santos. “Now that we’ve won a title, there’s less pressure. We’re able now to express ourselves.”