By Ben Beraldez Jr.
Eagle News Service
TAGUM, Davao del Norte — In what seemed to be a David vs. Goliath match that saw the San Miguel Davao Aguilas Football Club up against top seed FC Meralco Manila (FCMM), the home boys sent the Sparks a very clear message—that Davao was still their home turf.
For over 90 minutes, the crowd of more than 4,000 spectators in a packed stadium at Davao del Norte Sports Complex, held its breath in what appeared to be a roller-coaster ride of a match.
The Davao Aguilas gave their fans a bigger reason to support football in their home stead, though, as they showed that they could grind to a halt Goliath’s perfect PFL joyride.
The final score? 2-2.
Fans were seen waiting for the Aguilas outside their locker room in celebration of their win and their new hometown heroes.
After the win, Aguilas Australian coach Gary Phillips had this to say: “There’s no question, it’s a massive confidence boost for the team. I think the bigger picture is for us is, we grew as a team, we got back into the game and we showed a lot of spirit. And from day 1 I’ve said, we will be competitive, and that’s what we proved today.
“It is great to have so many supporters here, it is great to be back home. We believe in this team, we believe in this club. I’m very proud of the effort, and collectively as a group, we are all very proud and we certainly take it as a win,” he added.
The Aguilas next match will be on June 25, at 4 p.m.
The home team is expected to play host to visitors from up North – the Ilocos United Football Club (IUFC).
This will be the second time these teams will go against each other, their last match ending in a draw, 1-1, in Vigan, Ilocos Norte.
On June 28, the Aguilas will go up against the former UFL champs, Global Cebu FC.
It will be the first time the Aguilas will play against Global FC, so fans can expect another exciting match.
