Global, Kaya-Cignal booters barge into UFL semis

MANILA, Philippines—Defending champion Global and Kaya-Cignal advanced to the semifinals of the United Football League Cup with contrasting victories at the University of Makati pitch.

Global ended newcomer Pachanga’s run with a 1-nil victory, thanks to William Guerridon’s 27th minute strike, while Kaya overwhelmed Nomads Auction Manila, 3-0.

Prince Boley scored two goals, while Nate Burkey added another as Kaya forged a semifinal showdown against either Stallions FC or the winner of the Loyola Meralco and Sunken Garden clash scheduled last night.

Global awaits the winner of the Green Archers United-Air Force Phoenix quarterfinal match slated at 4 p.m. today also at UMak.

“We expected a tough game and that’s what we got,” said Global coach Graeme MacKinnon.

Guerridon, signed by Global late last season, proved clinical in finishing a cross from Janrick Soriano, sneaked in behind the Pachanga defense after a fine flick from midfield.

With Lexton Moy pulling the strings at midfield, Kaya looked the more dangerous team. Moy issued a reverse pass for Japanese midfielder Masa Omura who fed Boley for the opening goal in the 28th minute.

Growing in confidence, Kaya carved out plenty of chances, including one coming from Moy in the 65th minute when teh Fil-Chinese midfielder broke free for a one-on-one only to be denied by Nomads keeper Jeff Blake.

Kaya doubled the lead in the 72nd minute with a flowing move started and finished by Burkey, who slid in to slot home a pass from Anton del Rosario on the right flank.

Burkey created the third goal, finding Boley infront of goal for the easiest of chances after rounding past Blake five minutes from time.