Ceres-Negros continued its winning ways after a historic qualification to the next phase of the AFC Cup, leaning on a late goal by Jeff Christiaens to nip fierce rival Global-Cebu, 1-0, Saturday in the Philippines Football League at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City.
Christiaens’ winner came in the 83rd minute off a cross by substitute Stephan Schrock, allowing the Busmen to secure the maximum three points in their first-ever home match in a league competition.
Ceres improved to three points after two matches after starting its PFL campaign with a 1-all tie against Kaya-Makati last May 7.
The thrilling victory completed what has been a memorable three days for Ceres, which on Wednesday stunned Malaysian powerhouse Johor Darul Ta’zim to advance to the zonal finals of the AFC Cup.
Global extended its defensive woes on the local front, four days after conceding two late goals that allowed Singapore’s Home United to advance to the said zonal finals against Ceres.
Global suffered its first PFL loss in four matches to tie Kaya-Makati for second at seven points apiece.
At the Rizal Memorial Stadium, Meralco-Manila stretched its unbeaten run to four matches following a 2-0 victory over the Davao Aguilas late in the evening.
