Meralco, JPV battle for top spot

FC Meralco Manila and JPV Marikina dispute top spot when they clash on Saturday night in the Philippines Football League at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

With 20 points from their first eight matches, the Sparks can extend their lead at the top with another victory against a JPV side which they beat, 1-0, last May 20 in Biñan.

But Marikina has since racked up five straight victories since that defeat to Meralco, zooming to second place with 18 points as the competition reached its ninth week.

After back-to-back draws, Meralco returned to its winning ways last Saturday at the expense of Ilocos United, 1-0, at Quirino Stadium in Vigan.

Since the defeat to the Sparks, Marikina has conquered powerhouse sides Global Cebu and Ceres Negros as coach Dan Padernal’s men staked their claim as a contender this season.

“Meralco is a strong team, especially on the counterattack,” said Padernal. “We also have to be wary of their threat in set pieces.”

Meanwhile, Ceres Negros returns to the comforts of home after a tough away defeat at midweek as the Busmen battle Ilocos United at Panaad Stadium in a match that will be aired live on PTV at 4 p.m.