El-Habbib fires hat-trick as Global overwhelms Socceroo

MANILA, Philippines — Newly minted champion Global sustained its relentless form by demolishing Socceroo, 7-0, Tuesday night to breach the 100-goal mark in the United Football League at Emperador Stadium.

Two nights after wresting the crown with three games to spare, Global returned to the pitch with the same drive and purpose as Izzo El-Habbib fired a hat-trick to highlight the victory.

It was another superb show of attacking depth for Global, which pulled away after both teams entered the break goalless.

Curt Dizon gave Global the lead a minute into the second half with Mark Hartmann doubling the advantage from the penalty spot five minutes later.

After two quickfire goals from substitute Napo Bustillo, El-Habbib took over to complete the rout for Global, which now has 18 wins, two draws and two losses.

“I’m proud of the team,” said Global owner Dan Palami. “Our target is to reach 100 goals and we were able to achieve it.”

“This is the type of football we want to showcase to our fans,” said Global coach Leigh Manson.

What made the feat even more remarkable for Global was the fact that it lost its opening match, 0-4, to Loyola Meralco which meant they scored all 100 goals in their last 21 matches this season.