Global opens title bid as UFL fires off

GLOBAL FC opens its defense of the UFL league crown against Green Archers tonight even as newly promoted Ceres and Manila Jeepney make their top-flight debut at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Kaya also starts its campaign against Army in the second of a heavy three-game bill ushering in the 2015 season.

With a slew of newcomers expected to make an impact, Global is hoping to pick up from where it left off last season.

Coach Leigh Manson’s side bagged the league title with a 13-point spread ahead of Loyola on the strength of a record 112 goals.

Archers remain a dangerous side with veteran Chieffy Caligdong leading the way.

One of the busiest teams in terms of transfers during the off-season, Ceres is determined to make an impact in its maiden season in the first division.

Martin Steuble and Paul Mulders were added to the Bacolod squad that ruled the FA League Cup for its first major trophy late last year.

Jeepney will be without some of its key players who are still playing for Far Eastern University in the UAAP, including Eric Giganto and Arnel Amita.

With Englishman Adam Reekie taking over from David Perkovic at the helm, Kaya will be looking to improve on its third-place finish last season. The side will be led by new signing Louis Clark, who finished top scorer in the recent FA League Cup.