Stallion XI rips Army, keeps lead

Stallion relied on a virtuoso performance from Spanish striker Rufo Sanchez to overpower Philippine Army, 6-1, Tuesday night to extend its lead at the top of the United Football League at Emperador Stadium in Taguig.

Ruthless in and around the penalty box, Sanchez knocked in four  as Stallion raised its tally to 33 points, four ahead of Loyola Meralco, which later toppled Air Force, 2-0.

Phil Younghusband scored from the penalty spot after setting up older brother James’ first goal of the season as the Sparks prevailed despite a sub-par performance.

In a duel that turned chippy near the end, the Sparks kept their composure even as the frustrated Airmen resorted to rough play that saw Antonio Albor getting sent off later on for hitting Jang Joo-won following a scuffle.

Air Force defenders Joebel Bermejo and Neckson Leonora were all fortunate to stay on the pitch after some tough challenges on Phil and James Younghusband.

Nathan Alquiros scored on angled strike in the 34th minute for his fourth goal in four matches for Stallion, which welcomed skipper Ruben Doctora back from injury. Doctora came on as a second half substitute and wrapped up the win with his 77th minute strike.