BACOLOD CITY—Midfielder OJ Porteria rediscovered his scoring touch on Tuesday night, but Ceres Negros’ defensive frailties once again came to the fore even in a 3-2 victory over Myanmar side Shan United at the start of the AFC Cup at Panaad Stadium.
Porteria bagged a brace with his second goal three minutes from time ensuring the Busmen survived a second-half fightback from the visitors in front of close to 6,000 fans in Bacolod City.
The win gave Ceres the early lead in Group G after Becamex Binh Duong of Vietnam and Persija Jakarta of Indonesia battled to a goalless draw at Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.
“Credit to everyone in the team for putting in a shift tonight,” Porteria said.
Porteria produced a composed finish to a flowing move in the 17th minute for the opening goal.