United Clark begins life without Stephan Schrock with shutout win vs. Maharlika Manila

United Clark began its post-Schrock era in style. PFL

By Ivan Saldajeno

CARMONA--United Clark's new era began on a high note on Thursday night after bludgeoning Maharlika Manila, 4-0, in their Copa Paulino Alcantara showdown at the PFF National Training Centre here.

Playing for the first time since letting go of Stephan Schrock, United Clark showed that it can still thrive without its longtime captain even as the club started right in its buildup for the AFC Champions League group stages.

The newcomers shone brightly for United Clark in the first half.

Alan Robertson opened the scoring barrage with a 24th-minute header off a corner kick.

Ricki Sendra quickly made it 2-0 after striking a goal of his own in the 27th minute.

Ivan Ouano capped United Clark's first-half dominance with a 44th-minute goal.

Maharlika Manila adjusted defensively in the second half and slowed United Clark down, but the former could not prevent Pika Minegishi from scoring the dagger in the 73rd minute.

United Clark, however, suffered a huge blow in the 85th minute when goalkeeper Anthony Piinthus was ejected from the match due to a harsh foul while chasing for the ball outside the box.

This means Pinthus will be out on Monday when United Clark battles Kaya Iloilo in what is tipped to be a potential preview of the Copa final.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno