Cebu FC title bid still alive after tight 1-0 outing vs Stallion

Cebu players flock to JB Borlongan after scoring the go-ahead goal to keep the club in the PFL title race. PFL

By Drew Malihan

MANILA—A lone goal from Cebu Football Club standout JB Borlongan proved to be enough for the home side as they keep their PFL title hopes possible against a rather pesky Stallion Laguna side Sunday at the Dynamic Herb Borromeo Sports Complex in Talisay City.

Borlongan's goal spelled the difference for the Gentle Giants in the 42nd minute as he converted a rebound off a saved Ivan Ouano shot by Laguna keeper Patrick Deyto.

It was a back-and-forth affair for both clubs with their defenses up for potential attacks, including a 19th-minute attempt by Abou Sy that was deflected by Ace Villanueva after a clean tackle inside the box.

Ivorian forward Marius Kore attempted a 29th-minute free kick but to no avail, it bounced off the Stallion wall, while Daniel Gadia skied the second chance attempt.

Both sides' midfield and defense bossed the second half as they give both chances to their respective teams, including a spoiled attempt by American Kraig Bonanken in the 59th minute and another attempt by Borlongan in the 62nd minute.

Cebu FC persevered for the remainder of the second half, getting all three points to better their record at 14-5-1 with 47 points, two behind league leaders Kaya FC-Iloilo, and extending their unbeaten run to 19.

Stallion meanwhile suffered their first loss after a three-match win streak of their own.

Both clubs will meet for one final time on Wednesday with Cebu trying to send the title race to a deciding Saturday twinbill featuring Kaya Iloilo against Stallion Laguna and Cebu versus the Azkals Development Team.

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