Air Force XI nips Armymen, posts second straight victory

AIR FORCE’S bid to stay in the United Football League first division next season got a massive boost following a narrow 1-0 victory over fellow strugglers Army Saturday night at Emperador Stadium in Taguig.

Atoning for lethargic performances in previous matches, Antonio Albor struck in the 74th minute as the Airmen notched their second straight victory after a run of nine losses to start the season.

It was Albor’s first goal for Air Force since joining the team at the start of the season from Stallion Sta. Lucia.

One of the players counted upon to carry the fight for the Airmen following the departure of Chieffy Caligdong and the absence of Yanti Barsales, Albor had struggled to impose himself and even got himself sent off against Kaya in a 4-0 loss last month.

But the Iloilo-born midfielder rose to the occasion in the Armed Forces derby to resuscitate the Airmen’s survival hopes.

The Airmen, who also beat Stallion two weeks ago, jacked up their tally to six points as they brace for a tough duel against rival Loyola Meralco Sparks on Tuesday.

The loss sent Army down to the bottom after suffering its ninth loss in 11 matches.
Army has not won since March 18 when it beat Air Force, 3-0.