CARRYING the Negrense pride and the hope of the Philippines and the Asean region, Ceres Negros Football Club (FC) left for Dushanbe Friday, August 18, for the Leg 1 of the AFC Cup 2017 Inter-Zone Semifinals against FC Istklol of Tajikistan.
It’s a long seven to hour-flight in 3,097 nautical miles distance from Manila to Dushanbe for the Ceres side, but within themselves that great hope to snatch the spotlight in an away match and seal the victory at home before their home fans in Bacolod.
Recognizing Ceres FC as representative of the Philippines and Asean in this AFC Inter-Zone tournament, football clubs in the Philippines Football League and football fans across the Asean region have sent their full support and encouragements.
During the Philippines Football League post-match on Wednesday, FC Meralco Manila head coach Aris Caslib and skipper Chris Greatwich wished Ceres FC all the best as they represent the country in the AFC Cup while Ilocos United FC congratulated Ceres FC for their achievement in the AFC Cup.
“The (Ceres Negros) football club has really done the nation, the sport, the PFL and the founding teams of the PFL a great service. Philippine football is surely now on the football map. Thanks to your club,” Ilocos United FC CEO Anthony Joseph Lazaro said in his letter to Ceres FC chairman Leo Rey Yanson.
“I will take this opportunity to wish you and the club the very best of luck in the AFC Finals,” Lazaro added.
Kaya FC Makati also wished Ceres FC continued success and the best of luck against FC Istiklol in the AFC Cup.
“Thank you for being an outstanding representative for the Philippine club football,” the club said in a statement.
Meanwhile, fans of Johor Darul Ta'zim FC of Malaysia also sent their best wishes to Ceres FC in their quest in the AFC Cup as they represent the Asean region in the Inter-Zone semis.
The winner of this inter-zone semis will face the winner of the two-leg semis match between Bengaluru FC of India and 4.25 SC of the People’s Republic of Korea.
New signees
Aimed to fortify Ceres FC roster, the club welcomed new signees Joshua Dutosme and Nessi Ramos.
Both are veteran players from the multi-titled Ceres-University of St. La Salle varsity squad and were signed up during the transfer window.
