Davao Aguilas-University of Makati. –PFL PHOTO
Troy Limbo’s goal put Davao Aguilas-University of Makati on the cusp of an unlikely trip to the Copa Paulino Alcantara Final after stunning Dynamic Herb Cebu, 1-0, in the first leg of their semifinals encounter on Saturday at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Limbo came through in the 37th minute as the Aguilas gained the advantage in their two-legged affair despite being the only team outside of the Philippines Football League that is still in the running.
Davao will try to keep its aggregate lead in the return leg on Nov. 3 for a chance to make the title game for the second time.
The Aguilas were on the losing end in the inaugural Copa Final against Kaya-Iloilo when they were still a PFL member.
At least a draw would put Davao back in the biggest game of the annual cup competition.
Cebu, meanwhile, will need more than a one-goal win to avoid the upset and reach the Final for the first time in club history.
A counterattack allowed Limbo to produce the goal, left unmarked on the left side before a low shot that sent the Aguilas contingent into a frenzy.
But Davao blew a chance to double its advantage after Limbo won a penalty after being brought inside the box in the 56th.
Jhomaray Sapal went for a shot but it was easily stopped by Cebu keeper Jun Badelic.