MANILA, Philippines — Kaya bungled an opportunity to close in on the leaders after it was held to a scoreless draw by 10-man Stallion Sunday night in the United Football League at Emperador Stadium in Taguig.
Unable to ride the momentum of its 1-0 win over Global to end the first round, Kaya settled for a point in a match where defender Anton del Rosario had the best chance with a long-range effort that was denied by the crossbar in stoppage time.
The result left Kaya six points behind Loyola Meralco with 20 points, although David Perkovic’s side has played one match less than the Sparks and Global.
Stallion midfielder Osseynou Diop was sent off early in the second half for a challenge on Kaya midfielder Chris Greatwich, leading to a second yellow card.
In second division play, national team standout Patrick Reichelt delivered a hat trick in his debut as Ceres La Salle whipped Forza, 6-2.
Undergoing a major roster upgrade that saw Ceres also acquire the services of Carli de Murga, the Bacolod-based club looks poised to claim promotion to the first division after extending its lead at the top to four points.
The victory gave Ceres 23 points in 10 matches, four clear of nearest Second Division contender Laos.