AFC Cup: Ceres, Hanoi battle to stalemate at Panaad

Photo from AFC Cup Twitter account

BACOLOD CITY – Bienvenido Marañon fired his 10th goal of the AFC Cup, but it wasn’t enough as Philippines Football League champions Ceres Negros settled for a 1-1 draw with Hanoi of Vietnam Tuesday night in the first leg of the Asean zone semifinal at Panaad Stadium.

The Spanish striker’s diving header off a delightful cross from Stephan Schrock in the 57th minute handed the Busmen the lead after a fine buildup that started from the backline.

But the visitors fought back with a goal from Senegalese striker Omar Faye 10 minutes later, giving Hanoi a slim advantage heading into the second leg to the Vietnamese capital on June 25.

“I’m happy with the goal, but not satisfied with the result,” said Marañon.

Ceres coach Risto Vidakovic wasn’t pleased with some of the referee decisions as his players came on the wrong end of some heavy challenges from the Hanoi players. Only the goalkeeper Van Cong and defender Do Duy Manh were booked for the visitors.

“I think the game is still very open,” said Vidakovic. “But we have to fight until the very end to get a result in Hanoi.”

A goalless draw in the second leg will not be enough for Ceres as Hanoi has an away goal. A 1-0 win will be enough as well as a 2-2 draw. A 1-1 result will send the match into extra time.