Gutsy JPV Marikina forces draw on Ceres-Negros despite manpower disadvantage

Ten-man JPV Marikina fought back from two goals down to hold Ceres-Negros to a 2-2 draw on a rainy Wednesday night in the Philippines Football League at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City.

Fernando Rodriguez scored twice in the first half, after JPV defender PJ Fadrigalan was sent off, but goals from Takumi Uesato and Takashi Odawara ensured the visitors came away with a precious point.

With the draw, Ceres raised its tally to 39 points, six off FC Meralco Manila and two behind Kaya FC Makati. But the Busmen have played only 18 games so far this season, four less than the Sparks, which means they are still on track of finishing in top spot heading into the Finals Series.

The result puts JPV at fifth with 28 points, nine behind Global Cebu, which currently holds the last berth in the four-team Finals Series.

Rodriguez scored from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, before doubling the lead with a close-range finish after JPV defender Camelo Tacusalme’s weak pass was intercepted by Bienvenido Maranon.

But JPV battled back with Uesato finishing off a flowing move in the 73rd minute to slice the deficit. Odawara equalized seven minutes from time by converting a penalty.

Over at the Quirino Stadium in Vigan, Australian striker Harrison Sawyer delivered a hat trick as the Davao Aguilas notched a second straight victory at the expense of Ilocos United, 4-2.

Phil Younghusband was also on the scoresheet for the Aguilas, who are still in seventh spot with 14 points from 20 matches.