by Peter Atencio - Manila Standard Today
THE Philippine Azkals surprised Macau with the timely entry in the second half of Chieffy Caligdong, who scored both goals in a 2-0 victory by the Filipinos in the four-nation Long Teng Cup Tuesday at the Kaohsiung national stadium in Taiwan.
Caligdong, who was supposed to rest for the entire match, came in for Fil-German Oliver Potschke and went on the offensive immediately, his heroics allowing the Azkals to score their first win in the tournament against two draws.
The 5’5” wonder from Pototan, Iloilo found his mark in the 51st and in the 82nd minutes to eventually emerge as the tournament’s most prolific scorer with four total goals.
So far, Hong Kong booters Sham Kwok Keung and Wong Chin Hung trail Caligdong with two goals apiece.
The 29-year-old Caligdong received a corner kick from Matthew Hartmann and went for short blast, which goalie Ho Man Wei deflected.
The Filipino crowd went wild as Caligdong stayed ahead of defender Pak Lin Hao and sent the ball back in after he caught the ball on the rebound for his first goal.
Then, Caligdong found another opening on the 87th minute when he got a pass from Hartmann, chesting it to the right post and into the net.
The Azkals, who played without suspended Fil-Spanish booter Angel Guirado, settled for second spot at the end of the 90-minute encounter and they could remain there depending on how the Hong Kong-Chinese Taipei game will finish. Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei both have the same 1-1-0 win-draw-loss records as of presstime.
If Chinese Taipei loses, the Azkals will stay in second. If the two squads draw, the Azkals will end up third.
The Azkals took possession for 71% of the time, but they only had two shots on target out of 10.
The tournament proved to be a good experience for the Azkals, who had some members of the Southeast Asian Games-bound national under-23 team in the roster.
Caligdong, who was rested because of injury in the second half of their game against Chinese Taipei last Saturday, has a total of 13 goals out of 13 international appearances since 2004.
He had two chances to score in the closing minutes, but Ho quickly got in the way in the 87th, while his last try in front of the goal mouth and the keeper went too high.
The Azkals fly to Singapore for their next friendly this Friday and then to Manila for another friendly with Nepal on Monday.
Showing posts with label Long Teng Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Long Teng Cup. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Azkals held to another stalemate in Long Teng Cup
By Celest R. Flores - INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines was held to a stalemate again—this time a scoreless draw versus host Chinese-Taipei Sunday night in the Long Teng Cup.
The Azkals will need a dominating victory over Macau Tuesday as they are now lodged in third place with two points behind leaders Taiwan and defending champion Hong Kong, each with four points points buoyed by separate wins.
It was Fil-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller, debuting for the Azkals in the four-nation tournament, who showcased quality performance as he tirelessly thwarted all the goal attempts of the more aggressive Taiwanese side.
Muller salvaged the Philippines, which allowed the Taiwanese to slip past countless times for a shot on goal, with his timely saves.
The Azkals struggled to get in the rhythm on the attack early in the match marred by poor officiating and nasty defending, and then saw all of their clear-cut chances at a goal saved by Taiwan.
The Philippines came close to scoring when striker Phil Younghusband received the ball in the box with only the keeper to beat, but found his attempt foiled.
The Azkals opened up the competition in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, with an unsatisfying 3-3 draw to Hong Kong Friday where they conceded a goal at the last minute.
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines was held to a stalemate again—this time a scoreless draw versus host Chinese-Taipei Sunday night in the Long Teng Cup.
The Azkals will need a dominating victory over Macau Tuesday as they are now lodged in third place with two points behind leaders Taiwan and defending champion Hong Kong, each with four points points buoyed by separate wins.
It was Fil-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller, debuting for the Azkals in the four-nation tournament, who showcased quality performance as he tirelessly thwarted all the goal attempts of the more aggressive Taiwanese side.
Muller salvaged the Philippines, which allowed the Taiwanese to slip past countless times for a shot on goal, with his timely saves.
The Azkals struggled to get in the rhythm on the attack early in the match marred by poor officiating and nasty defending, and then saw all of their clear-cut chances at a goal saved by Taiwan.
The Philippines came close to scoring when striker Phil Younghusband received the ball in the box with only the keeper to beat, but found his attempt foiled.
The Azkals opened up the competition in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, with an unsatisfying 3-3 draw to Hong Kong Friday where they conceded a goal at the last minute.
Azkals go for win, crown in Teng Cup
by Olmin Leyba, The Philippine Star
MANILA, Philippines - Forced to a 3-3 standoff by Hong Kong in their debut, the Philippine Azkals eye no less than a victory today against host Chinese-Taipei to boost their bid for the top plum in the 2011 Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese-Taipei.
The draw gave the Filipinos a point, leaving them no choice but to gun for a maximum two points against the Taiwanese in the single-round-robin tournament among four nations. The hosts whitewashed Macau, 3-0, in their first match Friday night.
"We will be in a very good position to win the tournament if we win today," said Azkals coach Michael Weiss.
For them to do so, it is imperative for the Azkals to improve on their defense.
"Our defending (against Hong Kong) was all over the place," said skipper Aly Borromeo. "But at least, there's familiarity now. We know how we will play together. We can't let Chinese-Taipei get that confidence unlike against Hong Kong."
A mix of veterans and members of the U-23 pool, the Azkals struggled with new combinations against the Hong Kong booters, who pounced on Phl's shortcomings to score two early goals.
The Azkals got the opportunity to pull off a come-from-behind win when Phil Younghusband scored on a penalty kick and Chieffy Caligdong hit two astounding strikes before limping off the field in the 79th minute. But a late goal by Hong Kong forced the standoff.
Caligdong said he'll be ready for the Chinese-Taipei matchup but one of the Azkals won't be seeing action in Jason de Jong, who's suspended for a red card in the HK duel.
"We will sit a little a bit deeper (on defense) and will be looking for counter-attacks. I hope everybody steps up, especially in terms of alertness and concentration," Weiss said.
MANILA, Philippines - Forced to a 3-3 standoff by Hong Kong in their debut, the Philippine Azkals eye no less than a victory today against host Chinese-Taipei to boost their bid for the top plum in the 2011 Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese-Taipei.
The draw gave the Filipinos a point, leaving them no choice but to gun for a maximum two points against the Taiwanese in the single-round-robin tournament among four nations. The hosts whitewashed Macau, 3-0, in their first match Friday night.
"We will be in a very good position to win the tournament if we win today," said Azkals coach Michael Weiss.
For them to do so, it is imperative for the Azkals to improve on their defense.
"Our defending (against Hong Kong) was all over the place," said skipper Aly Borromeo. "But at least, there's familiarity now. We know how we will play together. We can't let Chinese-Taipei get that confidence unlike against Hong Kong."
A mix of veterans and members of the U-23 pool, the Azkals struggled with new combinations against the Hong Kong booters, who pounced on Phl's shortcomings to score two early goals.
The Azkals got the opportunity to pull off a come-from-behind win when Phil Younghusband scored on a penalty kick and Chieffy Caligdong hit two astounding strikes before limping off the field in the 79th minute. But a late goal by Hong Kong forced the standoff.
Caligdong said he'll be ready for the Chinese-Taipei matchup but one of the Azkals won't be seeing action in Jason de Jong, who's suspended for a red card in the HK duel.
"We will sit a little a bit deeper (on defense) and will be looking for counter-attacks. I hope everybody steps up, especially in terms of alertness and concentration," Weiss said.
Philippine Azkals open with HK draw despite Chieffy’s heroics
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
KAOHSIUNG — Chieffy Caligdong struck twice but the Philippine Azkals couldn’t finish off what could have been a comeback for the ages and settled for a 3-3 stalemate against defending champion Hong Kong Friday night in a highly-physical Long Teng Cup opening-match at the National Stadium here.
Caligdong, the proud son of Barotac Nuevo who plays for the Philippine Air Force, delivered two clinical goals, after Phil Younghusband opened the scoring from the penalty spot as the Azkals, who trailed 0-2 after just 22 minutes, flirted with another fightback only to be stalled by poor defending on the set piece near the end.
In a draw that brought back memories against Myanmar and Sri Lanka early this year, the Azkals yielded a late goal on a free kick from just outside the area.
“We should have been rewarded with a if only for Caligdong’s performance,” said Azkals coach Michael Weiss, who paid tribute to the influential winger who limped off after sustaining a knee injury in the 78th minute.
“He’s an outstanding player and I’m glad he’s back into his old shape,” Weiss said of Caligdong, who jacked up his international goal count to 10.
“The comeback was brave and fantastic but we were unlucky,” added Weiss, who also took to task the referees for what he claimed were three “wrong” offside calls in the second half on Phil Younghusband and Ian Araneta.
“It’s the first time we’re playing with a squad like this but you have to admire the players for putting their heart into the game by coming back from two goals down,” said team manager Dan Palami.
The draw gave the Azkals and Hong Kong a point each. Chinese-Taipei and Macau are playing as of presstime.
Missing Europe-based standouts like Stephan Schrock, Neil Etheridge and Paul Mulders, the Azkals’ defensive frailties were exposed early and often as Hong Kong zoomed to a 2-nil advantage thanks to a second-minute strike from Lee Wai Lim and a header from Cheng Lai Hin 22nd minute.
“We were a little naive defensively and we were punished,” said Weiss.
Younghusband sparked the comeback with a penalty conversion in the 31st minute, after he was pulled down by Wai Chiu Ng, who was later given a red card for a foul on Caligdong in the 65th minute.
Left to beat one defender after a fine pass from Younghusband, Caligdong made it all square with a clinical left-footed finish from the left in the 44th minute after a frenetic exchange of scoring chances
A livewire act on the left flank, Caligdong made it 3-2 by beating two defenders before firing past Hung Fai Yapp in the 62nd minute, sending about 500 Filipino supporters, led by the traveling fan group Kaholeros, in the stadium in delirium.
Just when the Azkals were about to celebrate one of their biggest comebacks, Hong Kong struck through Cheng Lai Hin, who was the quickest to react on the rebound after Chan Siu Ki’s free kick was saved into the post by the debuting Roland Muller.
Muller, who plays for Duisburg in the German second division, was the busier of the two goalkeepers, needing to be alert to stop Kwok Pin Pong late in the match, even as substitute Mark Hartmann drew an injury-time save from Yapp from point-blank range.
The match saw three players get sent off including Filipino midfielder Jason de Jong, who got his marching orders in injury time for dissent. Kwok followed him to the showers moments later for a clumsy challenge on Angel Aldeguer that drew a straight red card.
Though he feels the Azkals deserved more than a draw, Weiss said he’d rather dwell on the positives, particularly on the fact that they held a stronger Hong Kong team than the one the Filipinos lost to last year, 2-4.
“We were including new players in the lineup and we were able to get a result,” said Weiss.
KAOHSIUNG — Chieffy Caligdong struck twice but the Philippine Azkals couldn’t finish off what could have been a comeback for the ages and settled for a 3-3 stalemate against defending champion Hong Kong Friday night in a highly-physical Long Teng Cup opening-match at the National Stadium here.
Caligdong, the proud son of Barotac Nuevo who plays for the Philippine Air Force, delivered two clinical goals, after Phil Younghusband opened the scoring from the penalty spot as the Azkals, who trailed 0-2 after just 22 minutes, flirted with another fightback only to be stalled by poor defending on the set piece near the end.
In a draw that brought back memories against Myanmar and Sri Lanka early this year, the Azkals yielded a late goal on a free kick from just outside the area.
“We should have been rewarded with a if only for Caligdong’s performance,” said Azkals coach Michael Weiss, who paid tribute to the influential winger who limped off after sustaining a knee injury in the 78th minute.
“He’s an outstanding player and I’m glad he’s back into his old shape,” Weiss said of Caligdong, who jacked up his international goal count to 10.
“The comeback was brave and fantastic but we were unlucky,” added Weiss, who also took to task the referees for what he claimed were three “wrong” offside calls in the second half on Phil Younghusband and Ian Araneta.
“It’s the first time we’re playing with a squad like this but you have to admire the players for putting their heart into the game by coming back from two goals down,” said team manager Dan Palami.
The draw gave the Azkals and Hong Kong a point each. Chinese-Taipei and Macau are playing as of presstime.
Missing Europe-based standouts like Stephan Schrock, Neil Etheridge and Paul Mulders, the Azkals’ defensive frailties were exposed early and often as Hong Kong zoomed to a 2-nil advantage thanks to a second-minute strike from Lee Wai Lim and a header from Cheng Lai Hin 22nd minute.
“We were a little naive defensively and we were punished,” said Weiss.
Younghusband sparked the comeback with a penalty conversion in the 31st minute, after he was pulled down by Wai Chiu Ng, who was later given a red card for a foul on Caligdong in the 65th minute.
Left to beat one defender after a fine pass from Younghusband, Caligdong made it all square with a clinical left-footed finish from the left in the 44th minute after a frenetic exchange of scoring chances
A livewire act on the left flank, Caligdong made it 3-2 by beating two defenders before firing past Hung Fai Yapp in the 62nd minute, sending about 500 Filipino supporters, led by the traveling fan group Kaholeros, in the stadium in delirium.
Just when the Azkals were about to celebrate one of their biggest comebacks, Hong Kong struck through Cheng Lai Hin, who was the quickest to react on the rebound after Chan Siu Ki’s free kick was saved into the post by the debuting Roland Muller.
Muller, who plays for Duisburg in the German second division, was the busier of the two goalkeepers, needing to be alert to stop Kwok Pin Pong late in the match, even as substitute Mark Hartmann drew an injury-time save from Yapp from point-blank range.
The match saw three players get sent off including Filipino midfielder Jason de Jong, who got his marching orders in injury time for dissent. Kwok followed him to the showers moments later for a clumsy challenge on Angel Aldeguer that drew a straight red card.
Though he feels the Azkals deserved more than a draw, Weiss said he’d rather dwell on the positives, particularly on the fact that they held a stronger Hong Kong team than the one the Filipinos lost to last year, 2-4.
“We were including new players in the lineup and we were able to get a result,” said Weiss.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Weiss wary Azkals still lack cohesion
By Olmin Leyba - (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines - Azkals coach Michael Weiss expressed guarded optimism of Phl XI’s chances in the Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese-Taipei, noting how far from being one cohesive unit his combo of seniors and under-23 players is right now.
“We’re still lacking in some areas but the team is making good progress,” said Weiss prior to leaving for Kaohsiung for the Sept. 30-Oct.4 competition among defending champion Hong Kong, the Philippines, Macau, and host Taiwanese.
“Our preparation lacked consistency. But the positive thing is there are new players moving up and ready to take responsibility,” he added.
Weiss has assembled a team of 10 Azkals stalwarts and 10 members of the Southeast Asian Games U-23 pool to try improve the Philippines’ third place finish last year.
Aly Borromeo, Chieffy Caligdong, Phil and James Younghusband, Roel Gener, Angel Guirado, Misagh Bahadoran, Ian Araneta, Jason de Jong and Eduard Sacapano will provide the experience to the Phl side.
New recruits are Fil-Spanish Carli De Murga, Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann, Fil-Germans Roland Muller and Oliver Poetschke, and U-23 players Lemuel Unabia, Reymark Fernandez, Jeff Christiaens and Nickson Leonora, who will fill in for Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock and Paul Mulders.
“It will take some time to fulfill the potential of the team,” Weiss said.
The Azkals arrived in Kaohshiung yesterday and will kick off their campaign against Hong Kong on Sept. 30.
MANILA, Philippines - Azkals coach Michael Weiss expressed guarded optimism of Phl XI’s chances in the Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese-Taipei, noting how far from being one cohesive unit his combo of seniors and under-23 players is right now.
“We’re still lacking in some areas but the team is making good progress,” said Weiss prior to leaving for Kaohsiung for the Sept. 30-Oct.4 competition among defending champion Hong Kong, the Philippines, Macau, and host Taiwanese.
“Our preparation lacked consistency. But the positive thing is there are new players moving up and ready to take responsibility,” he added.
Weiss has assembled a team of 10 Azkals stalwarts and 10 members of the Southeast Asian Games U-23 pool to try improve the Philippines’ third place finish last year.
Aly Borromeo, Chieffy Caligdong, Phil and James Younghusband, Roel Gener, Angel Guirado, Misagh Bahadoran, Ian Araneta, Jason de Jong and Eduard Sacapano will provide the experience to the Phl side.
New recruits are Fil-Spanish Carli De Murga, Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann, Fil-Germans Roland Muller and Oliver Poetschke, and U-23 players Lemuel Unabia, Reymark Fernandez, Jeff Christiaens and Nickson Leonora, who will fill in for Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock and Paul Mulders.
“It will take some time to fulfill the potential of the team,” Weiss said.
The Azkals arrived in Kaohshiung yesterday and will kick off their campaign against Hong Kong on Sept. 30.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Azkals to field mix of veterans, youth
By Olmin Leyba (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines - A mix of veteran Azkals and under-23 players will carry the fight for the Philippines in the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from Sept. 30 to Oct 4.
Skipper Aly Borromeo and seasoned players Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta, the tourney’s top scorer with four goals last year, will banner the Phl side along with Azkals teammates Phil and James Younghusband, Angel Guirado, Roel Gener, Eduard Sacapaño, Misagh Bahadoran and Jason de Jong.
Joining them are mainstays of the U-23 pool currently training for the Southeast Asian Games, led by Fil-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller, Fil-Spanish rightback Carlos Alberto Martinez de Murga, Fil-Belgian midfielder Jeffrey Christiaens, and Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann.
U-23 bets Reymark Fernandez, Limuel Unabia, and Neckson Leonora and seniors Oliver Potschke and Moy Lexton complete the squad set to do battle against holders Hong Kong, host Chinese Taipei and Macau.
“I think we can consider the team we’ll be sending over to Long Teng Cup this year considerably stronger than the team that we had last time. So we’re looking at better chances, better opportunities,” said Azkals team manager Dan Palami during a joint training of the seniors and U-23 teams at the Rizal Stadium.
Last year, the Phl XI logged one win, one draw and one loss in the round-robin meet to finish third overall behind Hong Kong, then represented by its U-23 side, and the Taiwanese. Macau wound up fourth in that tourney.
“As far as management of the Philippine national team is concerned, the Long Teng Cup (participation) is geared towards allowing us to improve on our (Fifa world) rankings and at the same time, allowing the players to really have more international matches to play together,” he added.
The newbies, especially the U-23 booters, are being given exposure to test them in an international joust in preparation for the SEA Games in November, and future tournaments.
“The new players are quite promising, actually not just promising but very good additions to team and we are eager to watch them in the international competitions,” said Palami.
The Azkals will kick off their campaign against defending champion Hong Kong, to be represented by its full national team this time, on Sept. 30 at the Kaoshiung National Stadium. They will play the hosts on Oct. 2 then wind up their stint against Macau on Oct. 4.
MANILA, Philippines - A mix of veteran Azkals and under-23 players will carry the fight for the Philippines in the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from Sept. 30 to Oct 4.
Skipper Aly Borromeo and seasoned players Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta, the tourney’s top scorer with four goals last year, will banner the Phl side along with Azkals teammates Phil and James Younghusband, Angel Guirado, Roel Gener, Eduard Sacapaño, Misagh Bahadoran and Jason de Jong.
Joining them are mainstays of the U-23 pool currently training for the Southeast Asian Games, led by Fil-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller, Fil-Spanish rightback Carlos Alberto Martinez de Murga, Fil-Belgian midfielder Jeffrey Christiaens, and Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann.
U-23 bets Reymark Fernandez, Limuel Unabia, and Neckson Leonora and seniors Oliver Potschke and Moy Lexton complete the squad set to do battle against holders Hong Kong, host Chinese Taipei and Macau.
“I think we can consider the team we’ll be sending over to Long Teng Cup this year considerably stronger than the team that we had last time. So we’re looking at better chances, better opportunities,” said Azkals team manager Dan Palami during a joint training of the seniors and U-23 teams at the Rizal Stadium.
Last year, the Phl XI logged one win, one draw and one loss in the round-robin meet to finish third overall behind Hong Kong, then represented by its U-23 side, and the Taiwanese. Macau wound up fourth in that tourney.
“As far as management of the Philippine national team is concerned, the Long Teng Cup (participation) is geared towards allowing us to improve on our (Fifa world) rankings and at the same time, allowing the players to really have more international matches to play together,” he added.
The newbies, especially the U-23 booters, are being given exposure to test them in an international joust in preparation for the SEA Games in November, and future tournaments.
“The new players are quite promising, actually not just promising but very good additions to team and we are eager to watch them in the international competitions,” said Palami.
The Azkals will kick off their campaign against defending champion Hong Kong, to be represented by its full national team this time, on Sept. 30 at the Kaoshiung National Stadium. They will play the hosts on Oct. 2 then wind up their stint against Macau on Oct. 4.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Azkals battle Nepalese in friendly here, a first in more than a decade
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA—A Philippine football team expected to be at full-strength faces Nepal in an international friendly on October 11 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Friday said Nepal has confirmed the date to battle the Azkals.
It will mark the first time in more than a decade that the country is hosting an international friendly match.
Although the Philippines has hosted tournaments like the AFC Challenge Cup and more recently, the World Cup Qualifiers, it has not staged a friendly match at home since the Philippines lost to Estonia, 0-1, in November 1997 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
With Nepal’s confirmation and Singapore also agreeing to host the Azkals on October 7 at the Jelan Basar Stadium, the national team will be in for a tough grind with five matches in 11 days.
The Azkals, currently in Bacolod for a week-long training camp, will play three games in the Long Teng Cup in Kaouhsiung starting September 30.
National team manager Dan Palami is relishing the latest challenge for the Azkals, who lost to Kuwait, 1-3, in the second round of World Cup Qualifying at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last July 28.
“It’s a daunting task, but I’ve always thought that the only way we can improve is by playing more international matches,” said Palami.
“The good thing now is we have a pool of players in the team and only five from the Long Teng Cup team will be called up for the Singapore and Nepal matches.”
Europe-based players Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Jerry Lucena, Manny Ott and Paul Mulders will be available for the friendlies since the dates of the matches fall on the international break.
Dennis Cagara has already indicated his interest in playing for the Azkals in the two matches, Palami said.
“Anytime we have a full squad is always a plus for us because our players are not available all the time,” Araneta said.
The Nepal match, Palami said, will give the Azkals a preview of what to expect in the AFC Challenge Cup next year in Kathmandu.
“It will be a good preview for us to see their playing style and since they are ranked higher than us, it will be a good indicator of how we are from their level,” said Palami.
Palami said the friendly against the Singapore will be a gauge on how both teams have gone since the Azkals held the Lions to a 1-1 draw in their run to the Suzuki Cup semifinals last year.
MANILA—A Philippine football team expected to be at full-strength faces Nepal in an international friendly on October 11 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Friday said Nepal has confirmed the date to battle the Azkals.
It will mark the first time in more than a decade that the country is hosting an international friendly match.
Although the Philippines has hosted tournaments like the AFC Challenge Cup and more recently, the World Cup Qualifiers, it has not staged a friendly match at home since the Philippines lost to Estonia, 0-1, in November 1997 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
With Nepal’s confirmation and Singapore also agreeing to host the Azkals on October 7 at the Jelan Basar Stadium, the national team will be in for a tough grind with five matches in 11 days.
The Azkals, currently in Bacolod for a week-long training camp, will play three games in the Long Teng Cup in Kaouhsiung starting September 30.
National team manager Dan Palami is relishing the latest challenge for the Azkals, who lost to Kuwait, 1-3, in the second round of World Cup Qualifying at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last July 28.
“It’s a daunting task, but I’ve always thought that the only way we can improve is by playing more international matches,” said Palami.
“The good thing now is we have a pool of players in the team and only five from the Long Teng Cup team will be called up for the Singapore and Nepal matches.”
Europe-based players Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Jerry Lucena, Manny Ott and Paul Mulders will be available for the friendlies since the dates of the matches fall on the international break.
Dennis Cagara has already indicated his interest in playing for the Azkals in the two matches, Palami said.
“Anytime we have a full squad is always a plus for us because our players are not available all the time,” Araneta said.
The Nepal match, Palami said, will give the Azkals a preview of what to expect in the AFC Challenge Cup next year in Kathmandu.
“It will be a good preview for us to see their playing style and since they are ranked higher than us, it will be a good indicator of how we are from their level,” said Palami.
Palami said the friendly against the Singapore will be a gauge on how both teams have gone since the Azkals held the Lions to a 1-1 draw in their run to the Suzuki Cup semifinals last year.
Anton dispels Azkals rivalry with Volcanoes
By JULIEN MERCED C. MATABUENA - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines – No competition exists between two of the most popular national teams, the soccer team Philippine Azkals and the rugby team Philippine Volcanoes.
“No, no, not at all,” Azkals striker Anton del Rosario was quoted as saying in an article posted on abs-cbnnews.com on Sept. 9. This is in response to the question whether the soccer and rugby teams are competing against each other for popularity.
Del Rosario said that does not think much about the public’s comments that the Volcanoes are more popular than his team these days.
“I'm not worried about it. People can think what they think. I mean we are all playing for the same country. People should not be comparing Philippine teams, I mean we are all playing for the same country, for the same reasons,” he stressed.
Both the Azkals and the Volcanoes currently enjoy tremendous popularity in the country due to winning in various competitions abroad.
After their unsuccessful bid at the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, the Azkals are currently gearing up for the Long Teng Cup slated from Sept. 26 to Oct. 4 in Taiwan, among other forthcoming games. The Volcanoes, on the other hand, has just come from a successful run at the recently concluded Asian 5 Nations Division 1 tournament in Korea. They are currently competing at the first leg of the Asian Men’s 7s Championships in Shanghai, China.
Due to these honors, both teams have been picked to endorse a number of popular local brands.
Del Rosario expressed that he has a “few friends in Volcanoes” and hoped that “they will keep it well and be successful.”
Del Rosario joined the Azkals in 2004 and plays center back.
MANILA, Philippines – No competition exists between two of the most popular national teams, the soccer team Philippine Azkals and the rugby team Philippine Volcanoes.
“No, no, not at all,” Azkals striker Anton del Rosario was quoted as saying in an article posted on abs-cbnnews.com on Sept. 9. This is in response to the question whether the soccer and rugby teams are competing against each other for popularity.
Del Rosario said that does not think much about the public’s comments that the Volcanoes are more popular than his team these days.
“I'm not worried about it. People can think what they think. I mean we are all playing for the same country. People should not be comparing Philippine teams, I mean we are all playing for the same country, for the same reasons,” he stressed.
Both the Azkals and the Volcanoes currently enjoy tremendous popularity in the country due to winning in various competitions abroad.
After their unsuccessful bid at the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, the Azkals are currently gearing up for the Long Teng Cup slated from Sept. 26 to Oct. 4 in Taiwan, among other forthcoming games. The Volcanoes, on the other hand, has just come from a successful run at the recently concluded Asian 5 Nations Division 1 tournament in Korea. They are currently competing at the first leg of the Asian Men’s 7s Championships in Shanghai, China.
Due to these honors, both teams have been picked to endorse a number of popular local brands.
Del Rosario expressed that he has a “few friends in Volcanoes” and hoped that “they will keep it well and be successful.”
Del Rosario joined the Azkals in 2004 and plays center back.
Azkals’ heartthrobs arrive
BY NIDA BUENAFE - The Visayan Daily Star
His face covered with a hood and a baseball cap and wearing large ear phones, Phil Younghusband smiled to the crowd, stopped for a brief media interview before joining his brother James in the Azkals bus after the Philippine Men’s Football Team Azkals arrived yesterday at the Bacolod-Silay Airport for a weeklong camp in Bacolod City.
With the Younghusband brothers are a couple of Fil-foreign faces, the latest recruits to the team, and Under 23 players who will start training for the Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia in November.
Both Phil and James said they are happy to be back in Bacolod and they are excited to share the experience with the recruits, who are setting foot in Negros for the first time.
Azkals’ coach Hans Michael Weiss said bringing the team to the provinces and having the locals witness them play has always been emphasized to the members of the team.
“We are happy to be here and I personally have good memories of Bacolod. Last time was my first time to be here and we had a good match against Mongolia,” Weiss said.
He remembered the very good accommodation they had and the “very friendly” people who supported the team during the game against Mongolia.
Weiss said the Azkals will hold camp in Bacolod in preparation for the coming big tournaments such as the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Taiwan later this month.
With the professional players like keeper Neil Etheridge and midfielder Stephan Schrock not able to join the Azkals, coach Weiss said the recruits have to come up to the ranks since the team need fresh blood.
But even without Etheridge, Weiss said the young team has a good perspective with the infusion of new players.
Ray Johnnson, Manuel de Ott, and Ray de Jong are also set to join the team this weekend in time with the friendly games against a team from Manila and the PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champion Ceres – Negros Team.
Earlier, Gov. Alfredo Maranon said he is happy to have the Azkals back in the province and the public can watch the friendly games at the Panaad for free.
The governor said the game between the national team and the Ceres – Negros squad on September 13 at 5:30 p.m. will be a good match to watch.
His face covered with a hood and a baseball cap and wearing large ear phones, Phil Younghusband smiled to the crowd, stopped for a brief media interview before joining his brother James in the Azkals bus after the Philippine Men’s Football Team Azkals arrived yesterday at the Bacolod-Silay Airport for a weeklong camp in Bacolod City.
With the Younghusband brothers are a couple of Fil-foreign faces, the latest recruits to the team, and Under 23 players who will start training for the Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia in November.
Both Phil and James said they are happy to be back in Bacolod and they are excited to share the experience with the recruits, who are setting foot in Negros for the first time.
Azkals’ coach Hans Michael Weiss said bringing the team to the provinces and having the locals witness them play has always been emphasized to the members of the team.
“We are happy to be here and I personally have good memories of Bacolod. Last time was my first time to be here and we had a good match against Mongolia,” Weiss said.
He remembered the very good accommodation they had and the “very friendly” people who supported the team during the game against Mongolia.
Weiss said the Azkals will hold camp in Bacolod in preparation for the coming big tournaments such as the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Taiwan later this month.
With the professional players like keeper Neil Etheridge and midfielder Stephan Schrock not able to join the Azkals, coach Weiss said the recruits have to come up to the ranks since the team need fresh blood.
But even without Etheridge, Weiss said the young team has a good perspective with the infusion of new players.
Ray Johnnson, Manuel de Ott, and Ray de Jong are also set to join the team this weekend in time with the friendly games against a team from Manila and the PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champion Ceres – Negros Team.
Earlier, Gov. Alfredo Maranon said he is happy to have the Azkals back in the province and the public can watch the friendly games at the Panaad for free.
The governor said the game between the national team and the Ceres – Negros squad on September 13 at 5:30 p.m. will be a good match to watch.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Fil-Spanish joins Azkals
Peter Atencio - Manila Standard Today
ANOTHER Fil-Spanish player joined the Philippine Azkals national football team when they resume practice Monday.
National team manager Dan Palami on Sunday confirmed that 22-year-old Carlos Alberto Martínez de Murga Olaivar will be around when the Azkals do their daily workouts at the Alabang Country Club pitch and at the Rizal Memorial football grounds.
The Azkals are preparing for the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan next month.
Olaivar is a right back, who plays for Tercera Racing Club Portuense in Spain. The club plays in the fourth level of the Spanish league system.
His presence here comes at a time when Fil-Spanish striker Angel Guirado takes a rest from his injuries.
He is one of two new faces in the team, the other being Roland Mueller, a Fil-German goalie, who plays for MSV Duisburg in the second division Bundesliga, was recently accepted by the Azkals.
Meanwhile, private funds will be used to renovate the football pitch at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said this after the PFF signed a long-term agreement with the Philippine Sports Commission last Wednesday.
Funds amounting to $500,000 (around P21.7 million) will be used to set up a brand new artificial pitch at the Philsports complex, according to an agreement Araneta signed with PSC chairman Richie Garcia.
Peter Atencio
The money will come from international soccer body FIFA’s Goal 2 Project, which will course the funding through the PFF.
Under the new agreement, funding will be provided for the next 25 years to keep the Philsports turf in top condition, under the management of the PFF.
The facelifting of the 10,000-seat facility will give the PFF’s numerous national teams a chance to practice at any given time.
ANOTHER Fil-Spanish player joined the Philippine Azkals national football team when they resume practice Monday.
National team manager Dan Palami on Sunday confirmed that 22-year-old Carlos Alberto Martínez de Murga Olaivar will be around when the Azkals do their daily workouts at the Alabang Country Club pitch and at the Rizal Memorial football grounds.
The Azkals are preparing for the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan next month.
Olaivar is a right back, who plays for Tercera Racing Club Portuense in Spain. The club plays in the fourth level of the Spanish league system.
His presence here comes at a time when Fil-Spanish striker Angel Guirado takes a rest from his injuries.
He is one of two new faces in the team, the other being Roland Mueller, a Fil-German goalie, who plays for MSV Duisburg in the second division Bundesliga, was recently accepted by the Azkals.
Meanwhile, private funds will be used to renovate the football pitch at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said this after the PFF signed a long-term agreement with the Philippine Sports Commission last Wednesday.
Funds amounting to $500,000 (around P21.7 million) will be used to set up a brand new artificial pitch at the Philsports complex, according to an agreement Araneta signed with PSC chairman Richie Garcia.
Peter Atencio
The money will come from international soccer body FIFA’s Goal 2 Project, which will course the funding through the PFF.
Under the new agreement, funding will be provided for the next 25 years to keep the Philsports turf in top condition, under the management of the PFF.
The facelifting of the 10,000-seat facility will give the PFF’s numerous national teams a chance to practice at any given time.
Marañon waives tickets to Azkals’ friendly game
The Visayan Dail Star
Governor Alfredo Marañon wants the football match between the Philippine Azkals and the Ceres – Negros at the Panaad Stadium on September 13 open to the public and free of charge, Executive Assistant to the Governor for Sports Angel Verdeflor said yesterday.
He said they have to set aside their plans to charge P200, P100, and P50 for tickets to allow the public to watch the Azkals play for free.
While some of the Fil-foreign players will not be able to join the team in Bacolod City from September 8 to 15, Verdeflor said James and Phil Younghusbands will be part of the group.
It will be a good match as the Ceres – Negros First Under 23 squad has proven its strength against the best in the country during the Suzuki national championships in summer, Verdeflor said.
He added that the Negrense team will be a good match to the Azkals as they get ready for their stint in Taiwan later this month for the four-nation Long Teng Cup.
The Azkals will arrive on Thursday and will play against the Korean-reinforcedCentral Philippine University of Iloilo City the next day and against Global Manila on September 11.
Governor Alfredo Marañon wants the football match between the Philippine Azkals and the Ceres – Negros at the Panaad Stadium on September 13 open to the public and free of charge, Executive Assistant to the Governor for Sports Angel Verdeflor said yesterday.
He said they have to set aside their plans to charge P200, P100, and P50 for tickets to allow the public to watch the Azkals play for free.
While some of the Fil-foreign players will not be able to join the team in Bacolod City from September 8 to 15, Verdeflor said James and Phil Younghusbands will be part of the group.
It will be a good match as the Ceres – Negros First Under 23 squad has proven its strength against the best in the country during the Suzuki national championships in summer, Verdeflor said.
He added that the Negrense team will be a good match to the Azkals as they get ready for their stint in Taiwan later this month for the four-nation Long Teng Cup.
The Azkals will arrive on Thursday and will play against the Korean-reinforcedCentral Philippine University of Iloilo City the next day and against Global Manila on September 11.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Azkals team ready for Long Teng Cup
(MLSA)Published in the Sun.Star Davao newspaper
THE Team Azkals, bannered by Philippines national football senior players, are all set to compete in the Long Teng Cup slated September 26 to October 4 in Taiwan.
Azkals coordinator Ace Bright, in a press conference hosted by Pharma-Rex Inc. with Cortal SQR at The Marco Polo yesterday, said the team will hold camp in Bacolod City on Sept. 8 to 15 as part of their preparations for the upcoming event.
The team will play three exhibition games including a match against Global FC on Sept. 9 and Central Philippine University on Sept. 11. Another friendly game is set on Sept. 13.
"We hope that the Bacolod camp and the series of exhibition matches will help the Azkals' stint in Taiwan as they will be pitted against strong teams like Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei," Bright said.
The Azkals' clash against Hong Kong will be on Sept. 30 while their encounter against Chinese Taipei will be on Oct. 2.
Macau will be their next assignment on Oct. 4 in the single round-robin format bootfest.
Iloilo native Rogel Gener, for his part, said they have started rigid training under the close watch of German coach Michael Weiss.
The 37-year-old Gener added in the vernacular, "We expect hard training when we start our camp in Bacolod although we have already been training mornings and afternoons every day. Coach would want us to be ready for the Long Teng Cup."
Left winger Yannick Tuazon, right winger Misagh Bahadoran and defender Nestor Margarce joined Gener in the panel along with Pharma-Rex Inc. marketing manager Victor Oliveros.
Tuazon, who has roots in Tagum City, said they are taking one game at a time after failing in their bid in the World Cup qualifier.
"We believe in the sport of football. We believe that we can excel in it. Davao, being one of the biggest cities, has lots of open fields where kids can play football," Tuazon said.
Of the 25 Azkals mainstays, Gener said Tuazon is the only one qualified to play in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games where the football event requires participation of under 23 years old players only.
Margarce, in an interview, said only five pure-blooded Filipinos are in the team that's why they feel the pressure of living up to expectations and play in the best of their abilities.
Bahadoran admitted that the country does not have to hire Fil-foreign players to form a champion team.
He said, "We need to get younger players. In football, players need to start young say age seven or 10 or even younger. We can't always rely on Fil-foreign players to play for the country.
Our team manager Dan Palami is starting to promote the sport in the grassroots level and that's the best way to start forming a champion team."
Oliveros said Azkals and Cortal SQR share the same challenging beginnings as their product also battle `giants' in the pharmaceutical industry.
"In a country where people are huge fans of basketball and boxing, football is also gaining popularity through the Azkals. We believe that it is in football where we can excel and compete against the great teams in Asia. It is our aim that Cortal SQR will be a household name just like the Azkals," Oliveros said.
He also said that the best football players in the country may soon come from Davao where the sport has already been established several years ago.
The four Azkals, meanwhile, thanked Cortal SQR for giving them relief from pain during practices and actual games.
THE Team Azkals, bannered by Philippines national football senior players, are all set to compete in the Long Teng Cup slated September 26 to October 4 in Taiwan.
Azkals coordinator Ace Bright, in a press conference hosted by Pharma-Rex Inc. with Cortal SQR at The Marco Polo yesterday, said the team will hold camp in Bacolod City on Sept. 8 to 15 as part of their preparations for the upcoming event.
The team will play three exhibition games including a match against Global FC on Sept. 9 and Central Philippine University on Sept. 11. Another friendly game is set on Sept. 13.
"We hope that the Bacolod camp and the series of exhibition matches will help the Azkals' stint in Taiwan as they will be pitted against strong teams like Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei," Bright said.
The Azkals' clash against Hong Kong will be on Sept. 30 while their encounter against Chinese Taipei will be on Oct. 2.
Macau will be their next assignment on Oct. 4 in the single round-robin format bootfest.
Iloilo native Rogel Gener, for his part, said they have started rigid training under the close watch of German coach Michael Weiss.
The 37-year-old Gener added in the vernacular, "We expect hard training when we start our camp in Bacolod although we have already been training mornings and afternoons every day. Coach would want us to be ready for the Long Teng Cup."
Left winger Yannick Tuazon, right winger Misagh Bahadoran and defender Nestor Margarce joined Gener in the panel along with Pharma-Rex Inc. marketing manager Victor Oliveros.
Tuazon, who has roots in Tagum City, said they are taking one game at a time after failing in their bid in the World Cup qualifier.
"We believe in the sport of football. We believe that we can excel in it. Davao, being one of the biggest cities, has lots of open fields where kids can play football," Tuazon said.
Of the 25 Azkals mainstays, Gener said Tuazon is the only one qualified to play in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games where the football event requires participation of under 23 years old players only.
Margarce, in an interview, said only five pure-blooded Filipinos are in the team that's why they feel the pressure of living up to expectations and play in the best of their abilities.
Bahadoran admitted that the country does not have to hire Fil-foreign players to form a champion team.
He said, "We need to get younger players. In football, players need to start young say age seven or 10 or even younger. We can't always rely on Fil-foreign players to play for the country.
Our team manager Dan Palami is starting to promote the sport in the grassroots level and that's the best way to start forming a champion team."
Oliveros said Azkals and Cortal SQR share the same challenging beginnings as their product also battle `giants' in the pharmaceutical industry.
"In a country where people are huge fans of basketball and boxing, football is also gaining popularity through the Azkals. We believe that it is in football where we can excel and compete against the great teams in Asia. It is our aim that Cortal SQR will be a household name just like the Azkals," Oliveros said.
He also said that the best football players in the country may soon come from Davao where the sport has already been established several years ago.
The four Azkals, meanwhile, thanked Cortal SQR for giving them relief from pain during practices and actual games.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Azkals' Etheridge, Schrock to miss Long Teng Cup
abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – Several key Azkals players won’t be able to play for the national squad in the Long Teng Cup in September.
ABS-CBN’s Dyan Castillejo reported that Filipino-Europeans Neil Etherdige, Rob Gier, Jerry Lucena, Paul Mulders and Stephan Schrock will be missing the event that is due to take place in Taiwan.
Some of the players are unavailable in September due to commitments with their respective ball clubs in Europe.
"Sorry I won't be able to make the long teng cup I'm sure that the team will do great! Will be supporting them all the way," said Etheridge through Twitter.
The Long Teng Cup is not listed in the coordinated FIFA international match calendar, which is why the football clubs are not compelled to release the players.
Gier, meanwhile, chose to stay close with his wife, who is due to give birth.
"Because of the imminent arrival of my baby girl I will not be taking part in the Long Teng Cup. This does not mean that I won't be taking part in future matches and I look forward to meeting up with the guys again very soon. I hope you all understand that it is an important time for me to be at home," he said through his Facebook account.
Filipino-British siblings Phil and James Younghusband, meanwhile, will be around to provide the needed boost for the Azkals.
They already began training with the rest of the Azkals at the Alabang Country club on Tuesday.
“Good to be back on team, good to see the same old faces. Good as well to get back in training,” said James.
Joining them is 23-year-old Filipino-German recruit Roland Mueller, second choice goalkeeper of German second division squad Duisburg.
Filipino-Dutch Jason de Jong and Filipino-German Manny Ott will join the Azkals as well.
MANILA, Philippines – Several key Azkals players won’t be able to play for the national squad in the Long Teng Cup in September.
ABS-CBN’s Dyan Castillejo reported that Filipino-Europeans Neil Etherdige, Rob Gier, Jerry Lucena, Paul Mulders and Stephan Schrock will be missing the event that is due to take place in Taiwan.
Some of the players are unavailable in September due to commitments with their respective ball clubs in Europe.
"Sorry I won't be able to make the long teng cup I'm sure that the team will do great! Will be supporting them all the way," said Etheridge through Twitter.
The Long Teng Cup is not listed in the coordinated FIFA international match calendar, which is why the football clubs are not compelled to release the players.
Gier, meanwhile, chose to stay close with his wife, who is due to give birth.
"Because of the imminent arrival of my baby girl I will not be taking part in the Long Teng Cup. This does not mean that I won't be taking part in future matches and I look forward to meeting up with the guys again very soon. I hope you all understand that it is an important time for me to be at home," he said through his Facebook account.
Filipino-British siblings Phil and James Younghusband, meanwhile, will be around to provide the needed boost for the Azkals.
They already began training with the rest of the Azkals at the Alabang Country club on Tuesday.
“Good to be back on team, good to see the same old faces. Good as well to get back in training,” said James.
Joining them is 23-year-old Filipino-German recruit Roland Mueller, second choice goalkeeper of German second division squad Duisburg.
Filipino-Dutch Jason de Jong and Filipino-German Manny Ott will join the Azkals as well.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Azkals get boost from Germany
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA—Two new Filipino-German players to strengthen the Azkals, a German technical director to assess the country’s football program and an experienced assistant coach for the Philippine football team bound to see action in the Southeast Asian Games.
Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss, who arrived two days ago from Germany, announced these developments Wednesday night even as he expressed hope of a strengthened football program for the country in cooperation with the German Football Association (DFB).
Weiss was at the Manila Polo Club Wednesday night along with several players to attend a press conference of Azkals sponsor Cortal SQR, which gave the team P500,000 for its campaign in the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan next month as well as the SEA Games in December.
Cortal also gave the Philippine Homeless World Cup team to Paris financial aid of P200,000.
Weiss said that Fil-German player Ronald Mueller, the second choice goalkeeper of German second division side Duisberg, has already agreed to join the Azkals, while another player, a striker in Kevin Ingreso, will beef up the squad next year after getting clearance from his club, Hamburg.
Weiss also revealed that the DFB is sending a technical adviser in Krautzen Ekhardt in October to make an assessment on the current state of the sport in the country, especially at the youth level.
He added that compatriot, Michael Kruger, who was part of the backroom staff of the Tunisia team that reached the World Cup in 2006, will be arriving this month to join the coaching staff for the Azkals Under-23 squad for the SEA Games.
MANILA—Two new Filipino-German players to strengthen the Azkals, a German technical director to assess the country’s football program and an experienced assistant coach for the Philippine football team bound to see action in the Southeast Asian Games.
Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss, who arrived two days ago from Germany, announced these developments Wednesday night even as he expressed hope of a strengthened football program for the country in cooperation with the German Football Association (DFB).
Weiss was at the Manila Polo Club Wednesday night along with several players to attend a press conference of Azkals sponsor Cortal SQR, which gave the team P500,000 for its campaign in the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan next month as well as the SEA Games in December.
Cortal also gave the Philippine Homeless World Cup team to Paris financial aid of P200,000.
Weiss said that Fil-German player Ronald Mueller, the second choice goalkeeper of German second division side Duisberg, has already agreed to join the Azkals, while another player, a striker in Kevin Ingreso, will beef up the squad next year after getting clearance from his club, Hamburg.
Weiss also revealed that the DFB is sending a technical adviser in Krautzen Ekhardt in October to make an assessment on the current state of the sport in the country, especially at the youth level.
He added that compatriot, Michael Kruger, who was part of the backroom staff of the Tunisia team that reached the World Cup in 2006, will be arriving this month to join the coaching staff for the Azkals Under-23 squad for the SEA Games.
2 Azkals may miss match
By FRANCIS SANTIAGO - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge and attacking midfielder Marcus Stephan Schrock are unlikely to join the Philippine football team when it sees action in the Long Teng Cup slated in Kaohsiung, Taiwan late next month.
The four-nation tourney is the first of many lined up for the Azkals following their elimination in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers last July.
The presence of the two players, who shone against the Kuwaitis during the qualifiers, will surely strengthen the Azkals’ chances, but team manager Dan Palami said he may just tap their services for a more important competition in the future.
The 6-foot-2 Fil-British Etheridge, 21, is set to be promoted as regular reliever on the first team of Fulham, which competes in the Premiere League, while the 5-foot-5 Fil-German Schrock is busy with his ballclub Greuther Furth playing in the German second division.
“It’s unlikely that he (Etheridge) will play. For Schorck, may be not also,” Palami said in a recent interview.
“We want to preserve our relationship with their teams, so we bring in the players only when it’s absolutely necessary,” continued Palami, who left for Europe Wednesday to scout possible reinforcements for the Azkals.
Palami, though, said the Under-23 pool preparing for the Southeast Asian Games in November will join the Azkals in the event, where they are bidding to improve on their second place finish behind Hong Kong last year.
The Sept. 28-Oct. 6 competition will have competing teams from Taiwan, Macau and Hong Kong and Philippines although Philippine Football Federation chief Mariano ‘Nonong’ Araneta Jr said the organizers plan to expand the cast to six.
Last year, the Philippines finished with a 1-1-1 record in the competition, thumping Macau, (5-0) drawing with Taiwan (1-1) and bowing to Hong Kong (4-2).
MANILA, Philippines — Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge and attacking midfielder Marcus Stephan Schrock are unlikely to join the Philippine football team when it sees action in the Long Teng Cup slated in Kaohsiung, Taiwan late next month.
The four-nation tourney is the first of many lined up for the Azkals following their elimination in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers last July.
The presence of the two players, who shone against the Kuwaitis during the qualifiers, will surely strengthen the Azkals’ chances, but team manager Dan Palami said he may just tap their services for a more important competition in the future.
The 6-foot-2 Fil-British Etheridge, 21, is set to be promoted as regular reliever on the first team of Fulham, which competes in the Premiere League, while the 5-foot-5 Fil-German Schrock is busy with his ballclub Greuther Furth playing in the German second division.
“It’s unlikely that he (Etheridge) will play. For Schorck, may be not also,” Palami said in a recent interview.
“We want to preserve our relationship with their teams, so we bring in the players only when it’s absolutely necessary,” continued Palami, who left for Europe Wednesday to scout possible reinforcements for the Azkals.
Palami, though, said the Under-23 pool preparing for the Southeast Asian Games in November will join the Azkals in the event, where they are bidding to improve on their second place finish behind Hong Kong last year.
The Sept. 28-Oct. 6 competition will have competing teams from Taiwan, Macau and Hong Kong and Philippines although Philippine Football Federation chief Mariano ‘Nonong’ Araneta Jr said the organizers plan to expand the cast to six.
Last year, the Philippines finished with a 1-1-1 record in the competition, thumping Macau, (5-0) drawing with Taiwan (1-1) and bowing to Hong Kong (4-2).
Monday, August 15, 2011
Azkals take a break, visit Albay resort
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA—After a grueling year that saw them reach the second round of the World Cup qualifying, the Philippine Azkals take a much-needed break as they visit a luxury island resort in Bacacay, Albay Monday.
Misibis Bay, located in Cagraray Island, was personally handpicked by the celebrated football team.
Joining the three-day holiday are Anton del Rosario, Nate Burkey, Roel Gener, Jason Sabio, Richard Pacana, Patrick Ace Bright, Paolo Pascual, Misagh Bahadoran, Josef Malinay, Ricardo Becite and Yannick Tuason.
The Azkals return to action in the Long Teng Cup starting Sept. 28 in Taiwan. The team will be a mix of the seniors team and the Under-23 squad preparing for the Indonesia Southeast Asian Games in November.
The Azkals advanced to the AFC Challenge Cup main tournament for the first time by overcoming Mongolia in pre-qualifying, before finishing second behind Palestine in the group qualifying in Myanmar last March.
The Azkals saw their World Cup qualifying run end last July 28 when they lost to Kuwait, 1-5, on aggregate in the second round.
Still, they already made history by reaching the second round after beating Sri Lanka in their first World Cup qualifying tie in close to 10 years.
MANILA—After a grueling year that saw them reach the second round of the World Cup qualifying, the Philippine Azkals take a much-needed break as they visit a luxury island resort in Bacacay, Albay Monday.
Misibis Bay, located in Cagraray Island, was personally handpicked by the celebrated football team.
Joining the three-day holiday are Anton del Rosario, Nate Burkey, Roel Gener, Jason Sabio, Richard Pacana, Patrick Ace Bright, Paolo Pascual, Misagh Bahadoran, Josef Malinay, Ricardo Becite and Yannick Tuason.
The Azkals return to action in the Long Teng Cup starting Sept. 28 in Taiwan. The team will be a mix of the seniors team and the Under-23 squad preparing for the Indonesia Southeast Asian Games in November.
The Azkals advanced to the AFC Challenge Cup main tournament for the first time by overcoming Mongolia in pre-qualifying, before finishing second behind Palestine in the group qualifying in Myanmar last March.
The Azkals saw their World Cup qualifying run end last July 28 when they lost to Kuwait, 1-5, on aggregate in the second round.
Still, they already made history by reaching the second round after beating Sri Lanka in their first World Cup qualifying tie in close to 10 years.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Azkals prepare for 2011 Long Teng Cup
(JSG) - Sun Star Bacolod
AFTER falling out from the 2014 FIFA World Cup bid last Thursday, the Philippine Men’s Football National Team-Azkals will again be busy as they prepare for the upcoming 2011 Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from September 28 to October 4, 2011.
This was disclosed on Saturday to Sun.Star-Bacolod by Azkals’ team coordinator Patrick Ace Bright.
Bright said that, despite the failure in its World Cup bid, the Azkals will continue to strengthen the team as it also looks forward to the South East Asian Games this November and the final round of the Challenge Cup in March next year.
Among other teams competing in this September competition are defending champion Hongkong, Macau and host-Chinese Taipei.
The Philippine team ended last year’s campaign in third position behind Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei.
The nationals lost to Hong Kong 4-2 while it secured a draw against Chinese Taipei 1-all and beat Macau, 5-0.
However, the team still has to confirm the availability of its ace keeper Neil Etheridge and midfielder Stephan Schrock, as both are playing abroad. Etheridge is playing for Fulham FC while Schrock plays for the SpVgg GreutherFürth Club.
AFTER falling out from the 2014 FIFA World Cup bid last Thursday, the Philippine Men’s Football National Team-Azkals will again be busy as they prepare for the upcoming 2011 Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from September 28 to October 4, 2011.
This was disclosed on Saturday to Sun.Star-Bacolod by Azkals’ team coordinator Patrick Ace Bright.
Bright said that, despite the failure in its World Cup bid, the Azkals will continue to strengthen the team as it also looks forward to the South East Asian Games this November and the final round of the Challenge Cup in March next year.
Among other teams competing in this September competition are defending champion Hongkong, Macau and host-Chinese Taipei.
The Philippine team ended last year’s campaign in third position behind Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei.
The nationals lost to Hong Kong 4-2 while it secured a draw against Chinese Taipei 1-all and beat Macau, 5-0.
However, the team still has to confirm the availability of its ace keeper Neil Etheridge and midfielder Stephan Schrock, as both are playing abroad. Etheridge is playing for Fulham FC while Schrock plays for the SpVgg GreutherFürth Club.
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