MANILA, Philippines — Unable to cash in on their chances in an enthralling final 20 minutes, Loyola Meralco and Kaya settled for a scoreless draw Tuesday night in a United Football League clash marred by controversial refereeing decisions at Emperador Stadium in Taguig.
The result kept the Sparks on top at the end of the first of the triple-round league competition with Kaya securing third position with 16 points, four behind the leaders.
The match came to life in the last 20 minutes that saw both teams hit the post and Kaya midfielder Chris Greatwich bungle a penalty in the 75th minute after a retake was ordered by the referee Joel Lamboson.
OJ Porteria, who had an earlier appeal for a foul inside the area waved off, earned the penalty after he was brought down inside by Simon Greatwich.
Chris Greatwich beat Sampana, but a retake was ordered since the referee had yet to blow the whistle signaling the player to take the shot.
In the earlier kickoff, Nate Burkey struck in the second half as Pachanga PLDT Home Fibr came away with a narrow 1-0 win over Green Archers United Globe.