CARMONA, CAVITE — After three heartbreaking losses, Mendiola 1991 finally tallied a victory with a 2-0 outcome against Maharlika Manila in the 2020 PFL Season sponsored by Qatar Airways, Monday night at the PFF National Training Center.
“We are very happy with this win today,” said Mendiola coach Dan Padernal.
Mendiola broke the deadlock in the first half. Jon Aaron Nebreja gave his side the lead in the 25th minute of the match after heading the ball past Maharlika goalie Henri Bendeken Fong.
Come the second half, Maharlika tried to get back in the game early in the period. Dingdong Fornea had a golden opportunity when he intercepted the ball near the Mendiola box. Unfortunately, his resulting effort hit the side-netting with the goal at his mercy.
Mendiola then went close to doubling their lead later in the match. Skipper Jim Ashley Flores eluded two Maharlika defenders and forced a save against Bendeken Fong. James Pangasian’s rebound was then ruled out due to offside.
Flores, though, was not to be denied. He finished off a counterattack, scoring from close range in the 90th minute to seal the deal for Padernal’s men.
Mendiola shall finish its campaign against Stallion Laguna Football Club at 9:00 AM on November 12, 2020, at the same venue. On the other hand, Maharlika finishes the season with one win in five matches.
“It was very challenging,” said Maharlika coach Roxy Dorlas, now that his team played all of their five matches. “But it’s good that you could see the development of the team.”
Maharlika XI: Bandeken Fong (GK), Pitogo, Amisola, Yuhico, Basa, Libre, Lawless, Barbaso (C), Pusing, Beaton, Montelibano.
Mendiola XI: Ouattara (GK), Mboumbouo Ndepe, Flores ©, Hajimehdi, Nebreja, Altiche, Polinag, Sandoval, Bricenio, Fadrigalan, Appiah.
