Voltes trips Archers, vaults past idle Kaya

JP VOLTES survived an early penalty to subdue Green Archers United, 3-1, Wednesday in a United Football League match delayed by rain at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Japanese midfielder Takashi Odawara and compatriot Takumi Uesato and Alen Angeles were on target for Voltes, which leapfrogged past Kaya at fourth spot with 16 points from eight matches.

It was Voltes’ fifth win against a draw and two losses in their maiden campaign in the top flight.

Global continue to lead the table with 21 points with defending champion Ceres-La Salle and Loyola Meralco three points behind.

Archers have struggled all season, managing just four wins from their first three matches, but they got off to a dream start when Voltes defender Allan Auman fouled Gelo Diamante inside the box in the second minute, leaving referee Linjun Talaver no choice but to point to the penalty spot.

Defender William Ebanda sent Voltes goalkeeper Nelson Gasic the wrong way, giving Archers the advantage.

Voltes equalized in the 33rd minute through Odawara who buried the penalty after Uesato was brought down by John Rey Gumban inside the box.

Uesato finally put Voltes in front with a close-range strike in the 70th minute, before Angeles sealed the victory with a 77th minute strike.

Meanwhile, the Agila-Kaya clash slated Wednesday was postponed to a later date due to heavy rains.