Kaya FC-Iloilo and Far Eastern University wrapped up the elimination round of the PFF Women’s League 2023 sponsored by Coca-Cola Philippines after notching high-scoring results over their rivals last Saturday at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
Kaya found their way at the top of the summit all level with FEU and Manila Digger at 22 points, but Kaya holding a superior goal difference of +36 as compared to FEU’s +34 and Manila Digger’s +21. Fourth placed and three-time champions De La Salle University went down to fourth place with 19 points.
FEU started the final matchday with a 10-0 win over Manila Nomads FC.
Dionesa Tolentin (7’, 34’), Althea Rebosura (55’, 87’), and Carmela Altiche (67’, 88’) all scored a brace each as Regine Rebosura (26’), Katrina Magbitang (35’), Judie Arevalo (70’), and Erissa Rivas (76’) added gloss to the scoreline.
“We were able to adjust even we started slow, luckily we were able to gain our confidence,” said Altiche after the match. “We’re working out on our scoring which we still lack, but we are showing improvements heading in to the knockout stages.
Kaya followed it up with a comprehensive 15-0 over hapless Stallion Laguna FC in the second match.
Camille Rodriguez caught fire in the match, scoring four goals in the 28th, 39th, 47th, and 52nd minutes. Christine Hulleza (8’, 12’), Shelah Cadag (11’, 34’), Hazel Lustan (16’, 39’), and Sara Castañeda (55’, 60’) netted a brace with Lizzie Torre (22’), Charisa Lemoran (24’), and Hali Long (57’) also scoring a goal each in Kaya’s rout.
“Everyone worked hard and for each other for the win,” said Rodriugez, who was named player of the match. “We trust our management and coaching staff to prepare as well for the next round.”
The last match saw Manila Digger claim a 4-1 win over Tuloy FC to finish third in the standings.
Roselle Lecera scored two goals in the 13th and 22nd minutes while Elna Bongol and Karen Alora netted in the 39th and 53rd minutes.
Tuloy would also claim a consolation goal in the 60th minute from Isabella Bandoja as she finishes the elimination stage with 18 goals to her name.
With the final day results, top seed Kaya is scheduled to face fourth seed De La Salle University in the first semi-final tie while FEU and Manila Digger will square off in the second semi-final.
The semi-finals is set for October 2023, with schedule to be announced.
