Key clash for Global, Loyola Meralco booters

MANILA, Philippines — Global seeks to solidify its hold of top spot when it clashes with Loyola Meralco Tuesday night in a potential United Football League title decider at Emperador Stadium in Taguig City.

With key players returning to their sides after national team duty over the weekend, the 7:30 p.m. clash is tipped to be an explosive affair.

The Sparks, though, will still miss Phil Young-husband because of a groin injury.

Green Archers tries to pull level with Pachanga at fifth spot when it battles relegation-threatened Pasargad at 5:15 p.m.

Global, whose defender Daisuke Sato and winger Curt Dizon played for the Azkals over the weekend in Cebu, has the inside track to the title race with 41 points from 17 matches and a victory against its closest rival would go a long way in its championship ambitions.

A Sparks victory, however, could send the title race down the wire but Global coach Leigh Manson has downplayed the importance of the match.

“With all respect to Loyola, and we do respect them, it’s just another three points—no more, no less,” said the Scottish coach.