Kaya punishes Green Archers

With the disappointing exit in the AFC Cup still fresh on its mind, Kaya-Iloilo vented its fury on newcomer Green Archers United, 4-0, on Saturday night at the start of the 2019 Philippines Football League at Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.

Ghanaian striker Jordan Mintah came away with a first half hat trick before Jayson Panhay found the back of the net early in the second half as Kaya delivered a strong statement with an emphatic opening day victory.

“We’re coming from a loss in the AFC Cup, and now this is the start of a new league and what I hope will be the start of a new winning streak for Kaya,” Kaya skipper Jovin Bedic said.

Kaya coach Noel Marcaida felt his squad could have done more to change its fortunes in the AFC Cup two weeks ago when it suffered a group stage exit after a 0-2 defeat to Home United in Singapore.

Responding to Marcaida’s challenge, Kaya forcefully came out of the blocks, scoring within the first two minutes.

The pattern of dominance was established from there as Mintah grabbed his second in the 18th minute off a mistake from GAU goalkeeper Bandeken Fong.

Kaya next faces Stallion Laguna in Biñan on Wednesday.

Bedic said the strong start should be a warning shot to two-time defending champion Ceres Negros, which was slated to play Stallion late Saturday.

“For two seasons they’ve been the champions of the league,” said Bedic, referring to Ceres. “But we’re here—Kaya. I think we’re capable of beating them. We just need the right motivation and the support of the people, especially if we get a chance to play in Iloilo.”