MIDFIELDER Antonio Ugarte struck early in the second half as Kaya stunned Singapore’s Balestier Khalsa, 1-0, Tuesday night to emerge as surprise leader of Group E of the AFC Cup.
Given time and space at the edge of the box, Ugarte fired a snapshot into the bottom corner three minutes after the restart as the United Football League powerhouse nailed a second straight victory at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
With Kitchee of Hong Kong held to a scoreless draw by New Radiant, Kaya moved two points clear at the top with six points midway into the group stage.
Kaya actually became the first Filipino side to notch two victories in the competition—a feat that eluded Global last season.
“There’s genuine belief now that we cannot only qualify but maybe top the group,” said Kaya playing-coach Chris Greatwich.
Reflex save
Ugarte came close to doubling the advantage in the 74th minute, but his close-range header was forced out by Balestier goalkeeper Zaiful Nizam Abdullah with a fine reflex save.
Balestier’s best chance fell to substitute Jamal Ali, who was denied by a stunning save from Kaya’s Aussie goalkeeper Matthew Acton in the 51st minute.
Ceres-La Salle salvaged a 1-1 draw with S-League side Tampines Rovers in a Group F clash at Jalan Besar Stadium.
Spanish striker Adrian Gallardo kept his impressive scoring run with an 88th minute equalizer after Hafiz Sujad gave the home side the advantage midway into the second half.
Tampines remained on top with seven points, with Ceres in second with five on a win and two draws. Only the top two teams from the group will reach the knockout stage.
The Bacolod side looked headed to its first loss of the competition before Martin Steuble whipped in a cross from the right that was nodded by Patrick Reichelt to the path of Gallardo, who stabbed the ball home from inside the six-yard box.