United City blanks Maharlika in 2022 Copa Paulino Alcantara debut

Defending Philippines Football League (PFL) champion United City FC made its debut in the 2022 Copa Paulino Alcantara in a rousing fashion, blanking Maharlika Manila FC, 4-0, on Thursday at the PFF National Training Centre in Carmona, Cavite.

The powerhouse club did not take long to assert dominance with Alan Robertson converting the breakthrough goal in the 23rd minute. Midfielder Ricardo Sendra then gave UCFC a 2-0 edge with another goal just three minutes later.

United City wrapped up the first half holding a 3-0 cushion after Ivan Ouano was successful in his kick in the 44th minute.

Sealing the win for United City was forward Hikaru Minegeshi, whose kick in the 73rd minute went through Maharlika goalkeeper Henri Bandeken Fong, 4-0.

The win awarded UCFC an automatic three points as they went 1-0-0 early in the tournament. Maharlika, meanwhile, will drop to 1-0-2 but will still gain three points.

In the 2021 edition, United City FC did not participate due to legal action it took against former club Ceres-Negros FC.

United City will seek back-to-back wins when it tangles with Kaya FC-Iloilo on March 28 while Maharlika will next face the Azkals Development Team on April 25.

—MGP, GMA News