RAMSAY DREAMING OF AFC CUP SUCCESS WITH CERES NEGROS
Singapore: Iain Ramsay has set his sights on winning the 2017 AFC Cup ahead of Ceres Negros’ clash with Singapore’s Home United in the ASEAN Zonal Final first leg at Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday.
The side from the Philippines were one of the success stories of the Group Stage, advancing to the first knockout round as the tournament’s joint-leading scorers.
Ceres then ousted regional giants and 2015 winners Johor Darul Ta’zim on away goals to book a date with Home, who overcame Filipino opposition in Global FC to continue their own impressive run in the competition.
Midfielder Ramsay, who made his debut for the Philippines in 2015, is in his first season with Ceres and has been an ever-present as The Busmen have produced the country’s best-ever performance in the competition in scintillating fashion.
“Just making this [Zonal] final was a big step for Philippines football,” said Ramsay. “We know what’s at stake and we now want to come through this game. If we can go all the way it would be massive.
“[Home] are a very attack-minded team so it’ll definitely be a tough game, but we’re confident in our playing group and what we can do and I think we’ve done remarkably well, which gives us confidence going into this game.
“We’re a compact team but when we go forward, we have individuals who click together nicely, especially in the attacking third, and you’ve seen so far that we’ve scored a number of goals.”
Twenty in just eight games to be exact, as the 4-4 aggregate draw with Johor in the previous roundadded to the 16 scored in the Group Stage.
The last time Ceres visited Singapore, in May, they ran out impressive 4-2 winners over Tampines Roversto seal top spot in Group G, while they also defeated the Singaporeans 5-0 in Bacolod City in a game which saw Ramsay open the scoring with a stunning 20-yard effort.
But their progression to the knockout round was far from straightforward as anything other than victory over Tampines would have seen Hanoi FC advance at their expense.
“We were in the group of death but we took each game as it came, worked hard and it paid off,” added Ramsay.
“We’ll do the same against Home United, not under-estimate them as they’re a strong side, but we’re sure we can do the job.
“We’re not too far off from going all the way so we’ll hold on to the dream. We’re right up there with the teams we’ve come up against, but it’s a crazy competition and anyone can beat anyone.”
Born in Australia to a Scottish father and Filipino mother, Ramsay signed on professionally with Scottish side Gretna in 2006, before embarking on a career that has seen him travel the globe.
He returned to Australia in 2008 – appearing for Sydney FC, Sydney Olympic, Adelaide United and Melbourne City – then headed west once more in 2015, this time to join Iranian side Tractorsazi Tabriz.
Ceres came calling at the beginning of 2017 and, having played alongside a number of his teammates at international level, Ramsay has fitted seamlessly into his new side.
“I took a huge step leaving Australia when I was 17 and trying to make it in Scotland, and I have happy memories from there,” said the midfielder.
“Iran was also a massive experience and I was really enjoying it there; I adapted to life and got used to the culture, but things changed after a change of manager halfway through the season.
“In 2015, I made my debut for the national team and a few clubs had been in contact with me since then so I knew I’d eventually move to the Philippines.
“I thought it would be later in my career, but so far so good and I definitely don't regret it. I’m lucky to be playing at Ceres and these are exciting times.”
Ceres are now just two games away from the Inter Zone Semi-finals, where 2015 runners-up FC Istiklol of Tajikistan lie in wait.
Asked if the side from the Philippines can go on and win the competition, Ramsay’s answer is swift: “Why not?”
http://www.the-afc.com/afc-cup-2017/ramsay-dreaming-of-afc-cup-success-with-ceres-negros
PFL : Stallion Laguna 1-1 Kaya Fc Makati FT
PFL
Stallion Laguna vs Kaya Fc MAkati
Binan Football Stadium.
Start 4 pm
Official Livesteam link :
https://mycujoo.tv/ch/340?id=7423
Stallion Laguna vs Kaya Fc MAkati
Binan Football Stadium.
Start 4 pm
Official Livesteam link :
https://mycujoo.tv/ch/340?id=7423
29 July 2017
Meralco Manila give Younghusbands emotional sendoff with comeback win vs Davao Aguilas
- From:
THE Younghusbands gave Meralco Manila a fitting farewell as the pair starred in a 3-2 come-from-behind win over their new team Davao Aguilas in the Philippines Football League on Saturday at the Davao del Norte Sports Complex in Tagum.
Phil assisted on two goals as James scored his last goal as a Meralco player hours after their team made the formal announcement of the transfer to the San Miguel backed squad.
The two perfectly complimented center-back Milan Nikolic, who notched a brace for the Sparks who regained pole position with 27 points.
"It was an emotional match. Thanks to the great crowd and thanks to Phil and James for all they have done for the club," said Nikolic who was named man of the match.
Nikolic connected well with Phil, heading in the well taken corner by the national team skipper in the 41st minute, to negate the 33rd minute goal of newcomer Harrison Sawyer.
But Matt Hartmann, another new signing from the recent transfer window, pushed the hosts again on literally the next play.
The Sparks got the equalizer in what could be the moment of the night, with Phil beating defenders before feeding his brother James in the box in the 64th minute.
Nikolic made sure to give the two a fitting sendoff when he headed in a Curt Dizon cross in the 66th minute and give the Sparks the lead for good.
"You are all like brothers to me," James told the team after the match.
Despite a string of additions, the win remained elusive for the Aguilas who remained glued at seventh with five points after 12 games.
Read more at http://www.spin.ph/football/news/meralco-manila-give-younghusbands-emotional-sendoff-with-comeback-win-vs-davao-aguilas#3SxzQKyEc9dR5er7.99
Manila Tala, Laos eye breakthrough wins in WFL
BY JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA
Aiming for their breakthrough wins, Laos FC and Manila Tala FC tangle in the Weekend Futbol League (WFL) Elite Division today at the Army Support Command (Ascom) Football Field in Taguig City.
The two clubs meet at 11 a.m. for the right to enter the winners’ column.
Laos, which currently is currently No. 5, absorbed close defeats from Stallion Laguna FC B (3-4) and FC Meralco Manila Reserve Team (1-3) in its previous matches.
Cellar-dweller Manila Tala, on the other hand, suffered a narrow 1-2 loss to Green Archers United (GAU) FC in its opening game and a 2-11 drubbing from leading Kaya FC Elite.
Meanwhile, Stallion Laguna B and Meralco Manila Reserve Team, which both have mother clubs in the top flight Philippines Football League, collide at 10 a.m. on Sunday at the Biñan Football Stadium.
Stallion B is eager to bounce back from a 0-4 beating from Green Archers United while Meralco Reserve Team goes for a winning streak following its victory last week.
In the final game of the league’s third week, Kaya FC and Green Archers battle for the top spot at 2 p.m. at the McKinley Hill Stadium in Taguig City.
Kaya only leads GAU in goal difference as both squads have six points on a similar 2-0-0 win-draw-loss record.
http://www.manilatimes.net/manila-tala-laos-eye-breakthrough-wins-in-wfl/341157/
Younghusband brothers to transfer to Davao Aguilas
MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) - Phil and James Younghusband are set to transfer to the Davao Aguilas after 6 years with the Loyola football club, it was announced on Saturday, July 29.
"It is with great sadness that FC Meralco Manila announces today that James Younghusband and Phil Younghusband will be leaving the club and transferring to Davao Aguilas FC during the current PFL transfer window," FC Meralco Manila posted on its Facebook account.
"We made an earnest attempt to keep James and Phil in Manila with an offer of a contract extension. But the brothers elected to pursue this opportunity with Davao. They asked for a release from their current contract and we have granted it, allowing them to sign with the Aguilas."
http://www.rappler.com/sports/by-sport/football/177065-younghusband-brothers-transfer-davao-aguilas?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=sports
28 July 2017
Davao Aguilas takes on Meralco at home on Saturday
The home crowd in nearby Tagum City in Davao del Norte can expect another exciting match this Saturday as the home team – Davao Aguilas FC (DAFC), collides with FC Meralco Manila (FCMM).
Match time is 4:00 p.m.
The last time these two teams tangled at the Davao del Norte Sports Complex in June 22, the match ended in a 2-all draw as the Aguilas p’ut a dent on what was then the immaculate record of FC Meralco Manila.
In the lead up to the Meralco setto, the Aguilas bolstered its lineup by adding new players such as Matthew Hartman, Nick O’ Donnell, Australian striker Harrison Sawyer who all shirted in their previous match against Ceres-Negros FC last week at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City.
For this Saturday’s match, fans might be able to see new signings such as Tagum native and National U22 player Raymart Cubon, Jorrel Aristorenas, Azkal mainstay Simone Rota and former Azkal Jason De Jong.
Match will be held at the Davao del Norte Sports Complex. Tickets are available at the stadium.
Davao Aguilas Football Club (DAFC), was established earlier this year as a professional football club, based out of Tagum, Davao del Norte, in Mindanao. Its mission is to help develop football in Davao and the entire region.
The coaching staff is headed by Gary Philips, an Australian football veteran, while DAFC’s Chairman is Jefferson Cheng.
The club’s lead sponsor is San Miguel Corporation (SMC). Other club partners include Roadhouse Cafe, City Mall Davao and PAGGS Lounge.
http://edgedavao.net/sports/2017/07/28/davao-aguilas-takes-meralco-home-saturday/
Missing Transfer Information Causes Frustration For PFL Fans
by Lerche Njang
The transfer window is a time in which football fans NEED to be constantly updated with the most reliable news. However, this is not happening in the Philippines.
In football, the transfer window is a time that is as big as a cup finals. It is the period that football fans stay tuned into the radio, television, and other social media outlets in order to find out which player has moved out, and who has come in.
The transfer window is an exciting time in which football agents find themselves busy in their secret meetings with sporting directors negotiating for their players. Scouts find themselves moving from tournament to a tournament, trying to find the next possible Messi and Ronaldo. During this time, leagues and clubs records are smashed, negotiation stalled, young players are called up to the first team or loan out.
Big names are switching clubs in the PFL, but the Philippine football news is missing many transfer window talking points, leaving fans confused and frustrated.
Simone Rota, a great defender that joined Ceres Negros FC from Stallion Laguna FC six months ago, is among the top names that have switched clubs in the Philippines football League transfer window.
In the Philippines, football fans rely mostly on social media to get the latest information. However, players transfer detail is kept a secret.
It is clear that the first thing that the fans want to see in the transfer window is which player is moving in and who has moved out. The talking points are usually: the negotiation process, intermediary involves, terms of contracts, and the figures attached to the transfer.
With Davao Aguilas FC’s capture of Jason de Jong, Matt Hartmann, Harrison Sawyer, Simone Rota, and Jorrel Aristorenas during this years windo, there is a strong possibility they have smashed the club’s transfer record. However, transfer information is kept a secret.
There have been many questions revolving around the transfer window this year. Who is the most expensive player in the PFL? The most expensive foreign player in the PFL? The most expensive Filipino player in the PFL? However, thanks to the confidentiality of the transfer details, the only answer that can be provided is: Who knows?
http://www.thesportscol.com/2017/07/missing-transfer-information-causes-frustration-pfl-fans/
One-day football tournaments: The Philippines’ concerning challenge
By Lerche Njang,
One-day football tournaments are the most common football tournaments everywhere in the Philippines. It is always a fun day for young players and parents.
But what makes it so bad for the Philippines football authorities?
The Philippines needs these tournaments, there is no doubt about that. But there are aspects that are not conducive for player’s development. The desire for winning titles at all cost and then the parents’ involvement on the sideline can be problematic. They can be the stuff of nightmares.
These tournaments are the most common tournaments that Philippines young players participate in weekly but it has created a negative impact on them when they move on to eleven-a-side football. It has defined what people call ‘Philippines style’.
The first time I heard this, I asked the person, what is the Philippines’ style of football? He said “long balls.”
The fields are small and time is short in these seven or eight-a-side competitions, long balls to a target man or direct kick to the goal are a common playing style. Young players grow up playing this way.
Build up play is almost non-existent. The desire to win titles at all cost and share photos on the social media has taken away the developmental process of playing the beautiful game.
Parents involvements have been great for the players but to have ten or twenty parents shout different instructions at the same time to a player in the field is a nightmare. Young players are not given a chance to learn, explore and make football decisions independently.
As the Philippines national teams are struggling to perform at the international level, they need help in the grassroots.
Implementing tournament rules that enforce build up play in young players and limit long ball style will go a long way in developing complete young Filipinos.
Tournaments organisers can also introduce no shouting of instruction to players rule during matches to parents or have parents and spectators sitting area during competitions.
This will give the coaches a chance to do their job.
http://www.theroar.com.au/2017/07/26/one-day-football-tournaments-philippines-concerning-challenge/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social+media&utm_campaign=singe+top+share+bar
Philippines Under-22 Set Sights On SEA Games After AFC U23 Outing
The Philippine Men’s Under-22 national team look to have a better outing in the 29th Southeast Asian Games after its experience in the AFC Under-23 Championship 2018 Qualifiers held in Phnom Pehn, Cambodia last 19-23 July 2017.
The Philippine U22 team bowed out of the competition with three losses in Group J. The Philippines lost to Japan, 0-8, in the first match, but came back stronger despite losing against China PR (PHI 0-2), and Cambodia (PHI 0-1).
The tournament served as preparation for the SEA Games which begins on 14 August in Kuala Lumpur. The Philippines are in Group B alongside Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste.
“What is important is that we were able to play as a team,” said Philippine U22 head coach Marlon Maro. “Now we have to go back home and prepare for the SEA Games and improve on our weaknesses.”
“It was a tough group for our Philippines U22 team facing the likes of powerhouses Japan, China, and host Cambodia,” said PFF general secretary Atty. Edwin Gastanes. “However, our team showed grit in all of their matches which gives promise to our upcoming SEA Games campaign. We hope that they rise through the adversity.”
http://pff.org.ph/2017/07/28/philippines-22-set-sights-sea-games-afc-u23-outing/
Global FC- Ceres Negros match postponed
GLOBAL Cebu FC's much-anticipated home rematch with rival Ceres Negros FC on July 29 has been postponed to give way to the Bacolod City side's Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup match in Singapore. Global Cebu FC was supposed to take on Ceres Negros FC July 29 in a Philippines Football League (PFL) match at the Cebu City Sports Center. But with an away match with Home United scheduled on Aug. 2 at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore, the PFL decided to move Ceres Negros FC's match with Global Cebu FC and officially announced it on its official Facebook page last Wednesday. Ceres Negros FC's matches with Davao Aguilas FC on Aug. 1 and JPV Marikina FC on Aug. 5 are also postponed. Global Cebu FC's next two home games will be on Aug. 5 against Ilocos United FC and on Aug. 19 against Kaya FC-Makati. Global Cebu FC currently sits at fourth place with 22 points just behind third place Ceres Negros FC on goal difference. Kaya FC-Makati is the league leader with 26 points, followed by FC Meralco Manila with 24 points at second place. Global Cebu FC is coming off a 2-2 draw with FC Meralco Manila at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila. (EKA)
Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/sports/2017/07/28/global-fc-ceres-negros-match-postponed-555557
Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/sports/2017/07/28/global-fc-ceres-negros-match-postponed-555557
25 July 2017
23 July 2017
Kaya aims to keep lead, battles Manila Tala in WFL
BY JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA
Kaya FC Elite seeks to stretch its lead, as it takes on Manila Tala FC in the second match day of the Weekend Futbol League (WFL) Elite Division today at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) Turf in Taguig City.
Kickoff is set at 2 p.m.
Kaya Elite is currently sitting atop of the standings of the six-club tournament with a two-goal advantage in goal difference over the other opening day winners Green Archers United (GAU) FC and Stallion Laguna FC B.
The team from Makati scored a 5-2 win against FC Meralco Manila Reserve Team at the McKinley Hill Stadium last week.
Manila Tala, on the other hand, looks to bounce back from a narrow 1-2 loss to Green Archers United at the BGC Turf.
Meanwhile, Green Archers United and Stallion Laguna B clash at 2 p.m. at the De La Salle-Santiago Zobel Globe Football Field in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
GAU is coming off a slim victory over Manila Tala while the second team of Stallion Laguna enters the crucial fixture from a 4-3 win against Laos FC at the Blue Pitch in Circuit, Makati.
First day losers Meralco Manila Reserve Team and Laos try to notch their breakthrough victory when they tangle at 3:30 p.m. at the San Beda College Football Field in Manila.
http://www.manilatimes.net/kaya-aims-keep-lead-battles-manila-tala-wfl/340008/
Results : Green Archers United 4-0 Stallion B
Results : Green Archers United 4-0 Stallion B
AFC U-23 CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIERS : CAMBODIA 1-0 PHILIPPINES
Cambodia claimed third place in Group J as they wound down their participation in the AFC U-23 Championship qualifiers with a 1-0 win over the Philippines.
The margin of victory could been wider but Cambodia's Chreng Polroth saw his 29th minute penalty saved and the follow up blasted wide.
Javier Gayoso was thwarted with his side's best chance 10 minutes after the restart. The forward, bounding down the left flank, cut inside but Cambodian keeper Um Sereirath stood tall and strong to parry away his effort.
Sok Samnang, who had threatened for large parts of the game, finally found the second a minute shy of the hour mark. Substitute Son Vandeth’s long range effort cannoned off a Philippines defender in the box and fell kindly onto the path of the No. 9 who blasted into a yawning goalmouth.
Marlon Maro (Philippines Coach)
"We lost 1-0 from open play. There was an attempt and there was a missed clearance. Aside from losing the game, what is important is that we were able to play as a team. Now we have to go back home and prepare for the SEA Games and improve on our weaknesses."
Leonardo Vitorino (Cambodia Coach)
"I know the players were tired because we played a tough match today and also two tough matches against China and Japan. But I have told my players we can do more for the country. Not only the players but me also. We are working hard for the future and my players know we must do better."
Photos: AFC
PFL : Kaya FC -Makati 2-1 Ilocos United
PFL Today , 7 pm
Kaya Fc-Makati vs Ilocos United
Livestream link :
https://mycujoo.tv/ch/340?id=7317
Kaya Fc-Makati vs Ilocos United
Livestream link :
https://mycujoo.tv/ch/340?id=7317
Nierras sees frequent Wednesday PFL fixtures as "dangerous"
By Ivan Saldajeno
BIÑAN—On May 24, Global Cebu and Kaya Makati played in a Wednesday night match that was initially meant to make up for the former's AFC Cup schedule.
However, the midweek games have become a frequent staple since then.
Curiously, Cebu and Negros, the other PFL squad in the AFC Cup—and is still in the running at that—each played only two Wednesday night games from May 31.
On the other hand, Laguna has played in four of the six Wednesday playdates that took place since the said date, and Coach Ernie Nierras told some reporters that for him, it is taking a toll on all the players.
"In [a span of] five weeks, we played 10 games. We're not even done yet. We still have three games in 10 days. It's not just us. It's the whole league. But honestly, this is dangerous," said Nierras after Laguna's latest midweek mayhem against Marikina at the Biñan Football Stadium.
Curiously, both clubs are set to meet again on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
He also bared that a meeting with the PFF is happening soon to discuss the scheduling of the PFL.
"We're gonna meet with the [Philippine Football] Federation and see what we can do, because this is beyond ridiculous," he continued.
Still, Nierras is happy that his players braved the fatigue and injury factors to score their first win of the season.
[Related Story: Laguna finally strikes gold, beats skidding Marikina]
"I'm just happy that whatever injury they are having, they're kinda sulking it up," he lauded.
Curiously, Cebu and Negros, the other PFL squad in the AFC Cup—and is still in the running at that—each played only two Wednesday night games from May 31.
On the other hand, Laguna has played in four of the six Wednesday playdates that took place since the said date, and Coach Ernie Nierras told some reporters that for him, it is taking a toll on all the players.
"In [a span of] five weeks, we played 10 games. We're not even done yet. We still have three games in 10 days. It's not just us. It's the whole league. But honestly, this is dangerous," said Nierras after Laguna's latest midweek mayhem against Marikina at the Biñan Football Stadium.
Curiously, both clubs are set to meet again on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
He also bared that a meeting with the PFF is happening soon to discuss the scheduling of the PFL.
"We're gonna meet with the [Philippine Football] Federation and see what we can do, because this is beyond ridiculous," he continued.
Still, Nierras is happy that his players braved the fatigue and injury factors to score their first win of the season.
[Related Story: Laguna finally strikes gold, beats skidding Marikina]
"I'm just happy that whatever injury they are having, they're kinda sulking it up," he lauded.
http://www.dugout.ph/2017/07/nierras-sees-frequent-wednesday-pfl.html
Borlongan still hopeful despite of 2 defeats
CAGAYAN de Oro’s ace booter JB Borlongan remains hopeful despite of two straight losses suffered by the Philippine Under (U)-23 team in the ongoing Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U23 qualifier in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The former Abba’s Orchard School winger played in the two matches against Japan and China and noted that the two teams were just too good for them specially Japan. “Japan is just too good, they are in the different level to us,” he said. They lost to Japan 0-7 in their first match and then 0-2 to China. Despite of the loses JB, son of Greg and Marjou Chabon Borlongan, is still hopeful that they can end the tournament in a high note when they play Cambodia Sunday, July 23. The match against Cambodia will be a good test for them as they might meet them again in the South East Asian Games next month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They could not take the Cambodians too lightly as the host earned a scoreless draw in their meeting against China. Aside from Borlongan, two more players from Misamis Oriental, Troy Limbo, and Richard Talaroc of Davao Aguilas are playing for the Philippine U23 team. Most members of the Philippine team are playing with the different clubs in the ongoing Philippine Football League. Aside from Talaroc, the Davao Aguilas also have Junel Mark Bautista, Jaime Vicenzo Cheng, Dylan Alai de Bruycker, Rey Franco de la Torre, and Van Rey Diaz with the team
Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/sports/2017/07/22/borlongan-still-hopeful-despite-2-defeats-554399
Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/sports/2017/07/22/borlongan-still-hopeful-despite-2-defeats-554399
22 July 2017
Davao Aguilas to meet Ceres-Negros at Panaad
By HENRY G. DOBLE
SOUTHERN Mindanao pride Davao San Miguel Aguilas Football Club (FC) will arrive on Friday, July 21, in Bacolod City to challenge Ceres-Negros FC Saturday evening at Panaad Park and Stadium. The Aguilas, which forced Global Cebu FC to a scoreless draw recently in Cebu City, are still seeking their first win in the Philippines Football League (PFL). The Davao-side has a current record of five draws and five defeats. Ceres FC, meanwhile, is looking forward of extending its dominance at home where they are still undefeated this season. The Negros-based club is also expected to ride on their recent twin 7-0 victories over FC Meralco Manila and Ilocos United FC. Currently with PFL’s transfer window, the Aguilas were able to acquire more talented players to boost their campaign with the recent transfer of Fil-Danish midfielder Jason de Jong to Davao. Former Ceres FC midfielders Jorrel Aristorenas and Simone Rota also joined the Mindanao-based squad. Ceres FC team manager James Dinsay on Thursday said the club has already processed their released papers. “We told the players about it days before the transfer window opened and they have chosen their future club which is Davao FC,” he said. With Davao FC and Ceres FC meeting tomorrow, the three former Busmen are expected to return to Panaad turf. “If they (Davao FC) can process all the requirements of the PFL, they might suit up and play against us,” Dinsay said although he did not divulge the reason for the players’ release.
Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/sports/2017/07/21/davao-aguilas-meet-ceres-negros-panaad-554156
SOUTHERN Mindanao pride Davao San Miguel Aguilas Football Club (FC) will arrive on Friday, July 21, in Bacolod City to challenge Ceres-Negros FC Saturday evening at Panaad Park and Stadium. The Aguilas, which forced Global Cebu FC to a scoreless draw recently in Cebu City, are still seeking their first win in the Philippines Football League (PFL). The Davao-side has a current record of five draws and five defeats. Ceres FC, meanwhile, is looking forward of extending its dominance at home where they are still undefeated this season. The Negros-based club is also expected to ride on their recent twin 7-0 victories over FC Meralco Manila and Ilocos United FC. Currently with PFL’s transfer window, the Aguilas were able to acquire more talented players to boost their campaign with the recent transfer of Fil-Danish midfielder Jason de Jong to Davao. Former Ceres FC midfielders Jorrel Aristorenas and Simone Rota also joined the Mindanao-based squad. Ceres FC team manager James Dinsay on Thursday said the club has already processed their released papers. “We told the players about it days before the transfer window opened and they have chosen their future club which is Davao FC,” he said. With Davao FC and Ceres FC meeting tomorrow, the three former Busmen are expected to return to Panaad turf. “If they (Davao FC) can process all the requirements of the PFL, they might suit up and play against us,” Dinsay said although he did not divulge the reason for the players’ release.
Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/sports/2017/07/21/davao-aguilas-meet-ceres-negros-panaad-554156
MATCH PREVIEW: CERES-NEGROS V DAVAO AGUILAS
Ceres-Negros FC will take on the newly reinforced Davao Aguilas in their first PFL meeting on July 22 at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod. The Negros squad is looking to establish momentum after an emphatic 7-0 win away to Meralco Manila last weekend.
The Busmen came off two successive seven goal victories over Ilocos and Manila and are keen to continue the streak before facing Singapore’s Home United in the first leg of the AFC Cup ASEAN Zonal finals. The Aguilas have bounced back from a 1-5 setback against Kaya Makati but have shown promise after forcing a 0-0 draw away against Global in Cebu.
It will be an interesting first matchup of the season for the two teams as the visitors have been busy early in the transfer window. Davao has signed available players in Ceres’ Jason De Jong and Global Cebu’s Nick O’Donnel and Matthew Hartmann. The young core of the visitors are currently playing the the AFC U23 tournament. Dylan De Bruycker and the rest of the selected U23 will be unavailable for the match. From the three new players, only Hartmann and O’ Donnel will suit up for tomorrow’s match.
Davao assistant Coach Melchor Azures has bared that they only have sixteen players for tomorrow’s match including Hartmann and O’ Donnel who have only met twice with the team. Azures trusts that they will easily integrate with the team with short notice. “Nasa player na yan kung anong instruction ang ibibigay din ni Coach. Its up them on how they play sa loob. Actually professional players naman yan, matagal na naglalaro yang mga yan, so it’s easy for them to adjust. Kaya lang yung system of play medyo baka may konting adjustment na gagawin,” the assistant coach added.
Ceres is welcoming back Omid Nazari from injury and are expected have all players available except for Joshua Grommen who is in national duty. Ceres midfielder Arnie Pasinabo is excited for their first encounter in the league. “We trained everyday in preparation for tomorrows game. We’re excited to play with them, especially its the first match in the PFL. So I’m expecting a good game for tomorrow,” said the former Azkal player.
“For us its a challenge to beat all the teams that come here,” said Ceres Coach Risto Vidakovic. “We have to stay unbeaten at home. We have respect for all the teams in the league and as I said before, I expect my players to be one-hundred percent motivated to beat Davao tomorrow because its the first time we play against them.
When asked about on any special preparation versus Davao, the Serbian-born coach laments the lack of coverage which is slightly dampens preparations for all teams. “The problem here in the league is you cannot watch a lot of games so the information is not enough to prepare the game especially for one team. What we do, especially when we play at home, is we attack so we’ll just work on the offensive football. I hope that will work and we can beat Davao,” Vidakovic added.
http://ceresfootball.com/match-preview-ceres-negros-v-davao-aguilas/
AFC U-23 CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIERS: GROUP J - PHILIPPINES 0-2 CHINA
Phnom Penh: China rebounded from their opening day disappointment to record a 2-0 win over the Philippines on Friday in Group J of the 2018 AFC U-23 Championship qualifiers.
After drawing 0-0 with Cambodia on Wednesday, the victory takes China - who have already qualified for next year’s continental event as hosts - to the top of the group with one game to play. They are a solitary point ahead of Japan who are scheduled to face the Cambodians later today, while the Philippines are anchored to the foot of the table following a second successive defeat.
China captain He Chao opened the scoring in the 15th minute when, from a Tang Shi free-kick, he was allowed far too much time and space by Filipino defenders Jordan Jarvis and Jeremiah Rocha before bundling the ball home to register China's first goal of the qualifiers.
With the Philippines rarely troubling China goalkeeper Zhou Yuchen, who was a spectator for large swathes of the match, Zhang Xiuwei duly doubled the Chinese lead, the substitute latching onto a pinpoint Tang pass and firing home an unstoppable shot to effectively end the game as a contest.
China will now face Japan in a decidedly intriguing encounter on Sunday, while the Philippines are set to play Cambodia on the same day.
China coach Massimiliano Maddaloni
"I am happy with the win today. It was not going to be easy because in their last match the Philippines lost 8-0 to Japan and of course they didn't want a repeat of that, so this match they played with a lot of heart and desire. My players played well and created a lot of chances and shots on goal. Maybe two goals is a little less than expected but I am happy with my team."
"I am happy with the win today. It was not going to be easy because in their last match the Philippines lost 8-0 to Japan and of course they didn't want a repeat of that, so this match they played with a lot of heart and desire. My players played well and created a lot of chances and shots on goal. Maybe two goals is a little less than expected but I am happy with my team."
Philippines coach Marlon Maro
"My team were able to play more forward passes today so I think the result, despite the loss, is a positive one. We always prepare our team to play 100% in all our games.”
"My team were able to play more forward passes today so I think the result, despite the loss, is a positive one. We always prepare our team to play 100% in all our games.”
http://www.the-afc.com/afc-u-23-championship-2018/afc-u-23-championship-qualifiers-group-j-md2
Struggling Davao gets aggressive, targets Younghusband siblings via transfer window
By: Cedelf P. Tupas
Philippines Football League club FC Meralco Manila will be facing stiff competition in its bid to keep stars Phil and James Younghusband in the squad as the mid-year transfer window opened this week.
Two clubs, including newcomer San Miguel Davao Aguilas, have expressed interest in acquiring the Younghusband brothers, whose three-year deal with Meralco ends at the end of August.
“Two clubs are interested, but they are still under contract with Meralco,” said a reliable source. “What’s important to them (Younghusband brothers) is that they can continue playing at a high level.”
The Younghusband brothers have been with the Sparks since 2011, winning two trophies, including the UFL Cup in 2014.
A source within Meralco said the club is ready to offer Phil and James a one-year deal.
But the two clubs are reportedly offering a longer deal for the Younghusband brothers.
It will cost Aguilas
The transfer won’t be easy as it looks.
With the transfer window closing on August 15, two weeks before their contract ends with Meralco, the Sparks could ask for a transfer fee for the two players.
“The fee could go beyond P10 million (for the Younghusband brothers),” said the source.
After going winless in its first 10 games of the season, Davao, which is owned by businessman Jefferson Cheng, is undergoing a massive roster upgrade with midfielders Matthew Hartmann and Jason De Jong heading to the Mindanao club from Global Cebu and Ceres-Negros respectively.
Simone Rota, who recovered from a knee injury recently, is also reportedly beefing up the Aguilas, along with another Ceres player, Jorrel Aristorenas
Read more: http://sports.inquirer.net/257345/struggling-davao-gets-aggressive-targets-younghusband-siblings-via-transfer-window#ixzz4nRMiJuz4
Younghusbands to leave FC Meralco Manila?
Phil and James Younghusband are reportedly leaving FC Meralco Manila to play for the San Miguel Davao Aguilas in the Philippines Football League.
League sources say negotiations are in the works to facilitate the transfer of the Younghusbands to Davao which is currently amassing veteran players to boost its campaign in the inaugural season of the new national football league.
The Younghusbands have been two of the pillars of the Meralco club since its days in the old United Football League. They have been with Meralco since 2011.
Recently the Aguilas have acquired the services of former Azkal and Ceres Negros FC mildfielder Jason de Jong and Global Cebu FC midfielder Matthew Hartmann.
By Erel Cabatbat
http://fastbreak.com.ph/younghusbands-to-leave-fc-meralco-manila/