Meralco, Kaya in key UFL clash

MANILA, Philippines — A struggling Loyola Meralco side and a resurgent Kaya squad rekindle their rivalry in a crucial battle of title contenders even as Green Archers United guns for a fifth straight win Tuesday in the United Football League at Emperador Stadium in Taguig City.

The Sparks, who lost top spot to Global after dropping five points in their last two matches, need to win their 7:30 p.m. duel with Kaya, a team they have battled in epic matches in the past, to boost their title aspirations.

The Green Archers are looking to extend their hot streak earlier at 5:15 p.m. against a Pachanga side that managed just a scoreless draw against Army-GTI Sunday night.

Running third with 30 points, Kaya will pull level on points with the Sparks with a win.

The Sparks have been struggling to regain their early-season form that saw them drop just two first-round points due to the draw with Kaya.

“For a championship team… in a long season like this, there will always come a point where you’re questioned, how much do you really want it?

It’s a question that’s being asked of us right now,” said Loyola coach Vince Santos.

The Sparks drew with Stallion, 1-1, in their last outing after a 1-2 loss to Green Archers.

Kaya scored a confidence-building 4-2 win over Socceroo last Saturday.