A HAT TRICK from James Younghusband lifted the Loyola Meralco Sparks to a 3-1 thrashing of Stallion on Sunday in the United Football League at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The Sparks skipper, who also scored in the 3-2 upset of Ceres La Salle last week, struck twice late in the first half before wrapping up Loyola’s win with his third goal 11 minutes from time.
Loyola also needed a strong showing from Tommy Trigo on goal as the Sparks moved up to third behind JP Voltes and Global on goal difference.
“James (Younghusband) was just fantastic today,” said Sparks coach Simon McMenemy, who continued to miss injured striker Phil Younghusband.
“We’ve responded very well after a disappointing Cup run,” said James. “Everyone has been tremendous, positive, and we’re pleased with the way we started this campaign.”
Green Archers United picked up its maiden win with a 2-1 nipping of Pasargad in the first match played in sweltering conditions.
Goals from newcomer Chima Uzoka and Jess Melliza put Archers 2-nil up, before substitute Joseph Fermin scored for Pasargad, setting the stage for a nervy last 10 minutes.
“We were controlling the game, but we couldn’t finish (our chances),” said Archers coach Rodolfo Alicante, who missed skipper Chieffy Caligdong due to injury. “We had some problems in the end but I’m glad we were able to come away with three points.”
Archers climbed to fourth in the table with four points, while Pasargad remained winless in two matches, just like Stallion.
Picking up Tahj Minniecon’s throw in on the left, Younghusband cut inside before firing a curling effort to the near post past Ref Cuaresma for the opening goal in the 42nd minute.
Younghusband grabbed his second in first-half stoppage time, slotting home inside the box after Stallion struggled to clear Minniecon’s cross off a short corner kick.
Stallion trimmed the gap, 1-2, on Jim Ashley Flores’ header off Alquiros’ corner kick in the 64th minute, but Younghusband wrapped up the victory with a solid strike from 20 yards out.