Kaya Iloilo places one hand into PFL title after holding Cebu to crucial draw

Daizo Horikoshi's early goal could be the difference in the PFL title race. PFL

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Kaya Iloilo moved significantly into clinching the PFL title on Sunday after holding Dynamic Herb Cebu to a 1-1 draw at the Dynamic Herb Sports Complex in Talisay City.

An early strike from Daizo Horikoshi could be the decider in the title race as Cebu could not complete the comeback at home and Kaya Iloilo can now dictate its fate.

Horikoshi converted a Mar Diano cross in the seventh minute to put Kaya Iloilo ahead to the dismay of the sold-out Cebuano crowd.

Jacob Liao tied the match for Cebu after heading in an 19th minute goal off a Daniel Gadia assist from JB Borlongan's free kick.

Both clubs had numerous chances to take the lead, but their backlines held on, which favored Kaya Iloilo more especially in the endgame when Cebu failed to turn two free kicks into a goal.

Kaya Iloilo moved up to 46 points, while Cebu is now 44 with three matches left for each side.

Cebu continues its season-ending home stand next month with two matches against Stallion Laguna and its finale against the Azkals Development Team.

Kaya Iloilo, on the other hand, will be playing Mendiola and Maharlika also next month before they finish the season against Stallion Laguna.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno