Global, Loyola eye S’pore Cup semis slots

Foiled in the United Football League, Global and Loyola Meralco seek glory overseas as they vie for semifinal spots against two equally formidable foreign sides in the RHB Singapore Cup next week.

Global, runner-up to Stallion in both the league and Cup competitions of the UFL this season, tangles with Singapore League team DPMM Brunei in a two-leg quarterfinal clash on July 24 and 28, while the Sparks collide with Tanjong Pagar on July 23 and 27.

Both Filipino clubs will be hoping to make up for the disappointment in their UFL campaigns this season.

The Sparks are making their second quarterfinal appearance in the tournament, after beating Harimau Muda B, 2-0, last May. Only in their first year in the competition, Global already bundled out last year’s champion Warriors FC from Singapore, 2-0, in their first round meeting last May.

It doesn’t get any easier for the Filipino sides with both DPMM Brunei and Tanjong Pagar boasting experienced players in the thick of competitive play in the S-League.

“We surpassed everyone’s expectations last year, but this year, I think we are fitter and better prepared,” said Loyola defender Chad Gould  at yesterday’s PSA Forum.

“There will be no more excuses for Loyola,” added Gould, noting that the Sparks only took five days off after the season last month just to prepare for the tournament.

Loyola marketing manager Belay Fernando said Tanjong Pagar poses a tough challenge as it has also improved its roster from last season.

Global coach Brian Reid said the Singapore Cup should be a perfect chance for his players to make up for their disappointing UFL campaign.

UFL Golden Ball winner Rufo Sanchez has joined Global on loan from Stallion to strengthen the side.

“It hasn’t been ideal with all the injuries and there hasn’t been much time for recovery (after the season) but we’re preparing as best as we can,” said Reid, who was joined in the forum by defender Jerry Barbaso.