Hat trick fuels Pasargad upset of Meralco

Creative and nifty on its attacking third, Pasargad hammered out the biggest upset of the United Football League season, stunning Loyola Meralco, 4-3, Wednesday night at the University of Makati field.

A hat trick from Iranian striker Shayan Jafaridestjerdi lifted the newly promoted side to only its third victory of the season for sixth spot in the 10-team competition.

Picked up by Pasaragd during last month’s transfer window, Jafaridestjerdi drilled home the game-winner six minutes from time after Loyola fought back from 1-3 down at halftime to tie the match in the 74th minute.

Their second loss of the season spoiled the Sparks’ bid of reclaiming top spot ahead of Global, which is still two points clear with 27 points with seven matches remaining for both squads.

Mohamed Ohadi also made a resounding debut for the Pasargad, scoring the opening goal with a well-struck bicycle kick 13 minutes into the match that saw two teams miss from the penalty spot.