BACOLOD City-based Ceres La Salle FC returns to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup after Loyola-Meralco Sparks FC and Stallion FC drew 2-all on Saturday -- their last match in the United Football League.
Ceres’ remaining game against JP Voltes FC will not matter anymore as the provincial club is way ahead of the Voltes in goal difference (GD), 92-38. Loyola only registered 60 GD.
With a runner-up finish in both the league and the cup, Ceres FC will take on the play-off stage on February 7, 2017 while the double-champion Global FC is a direct entrant to Group Stage.
Also entering the AFC Cup play-off are Malaysia’s Felda United (2016 Malaysia Super League), Myanmar’s Magwe (2016 General Aung San Shield), DPR Korea’s April 25 (2016 Mangyongdae Prize Sports Games); Laos’ Lao Toyota FC (2016 Lao Premier League); and the first runner-up of 2016 Indonesia Soccer Championship A, 2016 Maldives FA Cup winner, and the fourth placer of Singapore’s 2016 S. League.
Ceres FC team manager James Dinsay felt a little bittersweet heading to their last game of the season after falling short of winning the UFL championship this year although they secured a qualifying spot in the AFC Cup.
“Kudos to all the teams who put up the hell of fights this year and congratulations to everyone. I’m proud of all the players for never giving up and playing their hearts out each time they step out onto the field,” Dinsay said.
“Thank you fans who have supported us no matter what. You guys keep on pushing us to come back strong each time. Please support us to finish the season strong,” he added.
