by Jonas Terrado
Bienvenido Maranon's early goal proved to be the difference maker as Ceres Negros defeated Indonesia's Persija Jakarta, 1-0, to remain on top of Group G in the AFC Cup at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City.
The Spanish striker scored almost 10 minutes in the match with a header from the center of the box, helping Ceres produce its third straight win in the group stage.
Ceres tightened its grip on the lead with nine points halfway into the competition.
The Busmen moved five points clear of Persija, which is now even with Vietnam’s Becamex Binh Duong at four points each.
Myanmar’s Shan United has yet to score a point in the group after three straight defeats.