MANILA, Philippines—Spanish striker Adrian Gallardo knocked in two goals as Ceres-La Salle overcame a rugged battle with Stallion, 3-0, to keep its perfect record in the United Football League at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Ceres skipper Juani Guirado was also on target as the Bacolod side extended its unbeaten start to five matches, just before the league goes into a two-week break due to the international match days and the Holy Week.
“Stallion had their game plan and I think they followed it, but God willing, we scored the goals that we needed,” said Ceres coach Ali Go. “It was a hard game for us.”
Earlier, Green Archers United fired four goals in the second half as it scored its second win at the expense of Socceroo, 5-0.
Robert Canedo laid the foundation for Archers’ most convincing win of the season with his 33rd-minute strike, before goals from Robert Lopez Mendy and Daniel Del Rio in the second half wrapped up the victory.
It was a workmanlike display by a Ceres side that has now beaten two teams in the Top 4 in successive weeks, counting its 2-1 decision over leader Kaya last March 14.
Similar to its matches against Global and Loyola Meralco, Stallion came out aggressive with rough challenges and leftback Christian Nana, already on a yellow card, was fortunate not to have been dismissed in the 32nd minute following another tackle on Patrick Reichelt.