Daryl Roberts made a rousing debut in the Philippines Football League as Global Cebu FC salvaged a 2-2 draw against FC Meralco Manila last Saturday night at Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Activated by coach Marjo Allado in lieu of Guinean striker Sekou Sylla last week, Roberts, a former Trinidad and Tobago international, bagged a brace to cancel out goals from Phil and James Younghusband as both clubs picked up a point each.
The result lifted the Sparks back to top spot with 24 points, just ahead of Kaya FC Makati, which can regain the lead with a victory against Ilocos United on Sunday at University of Makati.
The Cebu side, with six wins, four draws and two losses, increased its tally to 22 points from 12 matches for third spot.
Taking the attention away from rumored interest from the Davao Aguilas, James Younghusband put the Sparks on top by following up Joaco Canas’ strike that came off the post.
Roberts equalized five minutes later with a brilliant individual effort, before Patrick Deyto stopped Phil Younghusband’s free kick to ensure that both sides remained tied and entered the break on level terms.
The Sparks regained the advantage with Younghusband scoring from the penalty spot in the 54th minute, but Roberts tied the match again six minutes later.