JP Voltes FC solidified their bid for a title as they defeated Green Archers United FC, 3-0, and took their first win of the second round of the 2016 United Football League, Wednesday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
It was Green Archers United who took the initiative in the first period. GAU continued to pile up the pressure on JP Voltes’ midfield and backline, but they could not get something with their finishing.
In the 14th minute, skipper Chieffy Caligdong had a free kick for the black-shirts, which was deflected out for a corner. His shot four minutes after went straight to opposing keeper Nelson Gasic. More chances, both from set pieces and from build up, went for naught for GAU.
JP Voltes only had their moments in the opening half when it reached its last stages. Takumi Uesato, who had returned from suspension, tried to break the deadlock. Green Archers United’s guardian Bendeken Fong, nonetheless, made sure the score line stayed level at 0 at the break with two huge saves.
Captain Yu Hoshide of JP Voltes conceded to the fact that they lack intensity in the first half. He said, “Actually, [in] the first half, [I was] a bit frustrated. But we fixed a little bit in the second half.”
These adjustments were apparent as the home side started with aggressiveness in the second half. This intensity resulted in the first goal of the match for JP Voltes FC just two minutes after the restart. J Baguioro sent a ball into the box, but instead of clearing it out, Green Archers United’s Ronnie Aguisanda directed it into his own goal.
The unfortunate own goal fueled GAU to try and make amends minutes after, but they could not equalize. It was JPV who got the second goal in the 54th minute. Uesato this time would not be denied, as he clinically finished the buildup to double the lead.
JP Voltes dominated the period with control of possession. Green Archers United tried to make do with counter attacks, but could not get past their middle third.
After several missed opportunities, the men in stripes got the final nail on the coffin in the 84th minute. GAU’s Gregory Yang tried to send a pass forward, but Uesato intercepted the ball. The Japanese striker had a good run towards Fong’s goal, and directed the ball to the back of the net for a brace and the win for his squad.
Hoshide was relieved after the win, as JP Voltes have stayed in step of the league leaders. He said, “All games are very important for us. It’s a challenge, because we came from second division.”
JP Voltes FC will take a long break before battling Stallion FC on Saturday, August 20, at 1:45pm. On the other hand, Green Archers United will face Forza FC on Sunday, August 14, at 1:45pm as well. Both matches are at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
