ROY MOORE - AMD/HS, GMA News
In Katmandu, Nepal, the Azkals overcame the distraction of a raging sexual harassment controversy involving the daughter of a former Philippine president to boot India out of the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup and advance to a do-or-die match against favored Tajikistan.
Phil Younghusband provided a poweful demonstration of the Azkals' "brother act."
The younger of the ballyhooed English-Filipino sibling duo scored on both sides of halftime in the Azkals' 2-0 win over India, Sunday at the Dasarath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu. Both goals were assisted by his Kuya James.
Now the Philippines and Tajikistan will compete for the second spot in the group to reach the semifinals. After beating India 2-0, Tajikistan lost to North Korea 2-0, the same scoreline as the Azkals. North Korea has won the group, whatever happens between them and India, while Tajikistan and the Philippines have exactly the same results against India and North Korea, crafting a do-or-die moment between the two countries on March 13.
A win for either nation would put them through while a draw would see both countries finish with four points. As they would end with the same goal difference too, the game would be decided by penalties and whoever advances will likely face the winner of Group A’s clash between Palestine and the Maldives.
The AFC Challenge Cup is known as a tournament for lower-ranked Asian national teams. Thus, traditional powerhouses Japan, South Korea, and China are not playing. The Philippines is ranked 156 by FIFA, India is at 158, and Tajikistan at 145. Defending champion North Korea is currently 111, while it's arch-enemy South Korea is at 30.
Phil's goals for the Philippines
The Philippines took control of the India match in the 10th minute with a Jason Sabio long throw being flicked on by James Younghusband to his brother Phil, who found the back of the net.
The trick was almost repeated soon after when Sabio threw in another long ball, and it fell kindly for Phil Younghusband but he blasted it this time. Usually playing on the wings for the Philippines, Chieffy Caligdong returned to the starting lineup in a more central role for the Azkals, as he fashioned the next chance.
Playing a great through ball for Phil Younghusband, the Loyola Meralco Sparks forward in the UFL raced onto the ball. Pitted against Karanjit Singh in the India goal, Younghusband shot low, the Indian goalkeeper pulled off a great save with his legs, knocking the ball wide. However, the referee didn’t see it and gave a goal kick instead of a corner.
India, meanwhile, looked a bit sluggish and couldn’t find their rhythm. Their best chance of the half came when Joaquim Abranches was found with a nice pass and he turned and shot at goal from the edge of the area. It was too close to Etheridge in goal though, and the Fulham keeper held the shot, mopping up all of India’s other chances afterwards.
In the second half, India started brighter and began passing the ball well, looking for quick attacks. Both sides though seemed to threaten most from the long throws, with Sabio and his Indian counterpart taking on a big role.
India’s best chance then fell just after the hour mark when a free-kick close to the Azkals’ area on the left wing was curled in. Joaquim Abranches glanced a header at goal but it just went wide.
Shortly afterwards the Azkals threatened with Misagh Bahadoran, who came on to protect the still-recovering Chieffy Caligdong, crossing for James Younghusband who controlled the ball but fired over from just inside the area. Minutes later, Paul Mulders went on a long surging run and ended up in India’s box from an acute angle, but he could only blast over as well.
The Azkals made the pressure count moments later when the Younghusband brothers combined again, playing a one-two which sent Phil Younghusband in on goal. Phil faced an acute angle but slotted into the top corner to double the Azkals’ lead in the 72nd minute, also becoming the joint-top tournament scorer at the same time with his brace.
Angel Guirado could have sent the Philippines further ahead when he was found on the edge of the area but his low shot was parried by the Indian goalkeeper before his next shot was deflected for a corner.
India almost pulled a goal back in the 87th minute when captain Sunil Chettri was fed a cut back from the right wing after the Indian winger beat his man. Chettri could only fire with the goal gaping though and the move summed up India’s campaign in the Challenge Cup as they limped out of the competition. The Azkals saw the game out to record their first ever win the final stage of the Challenge Cup to set up an all or nothing clash with Tajikistan.
It will be a tall order for the Philippines to draw or beat Tajikistan, a side that recently drew with North Korea 1-1 in a World Cup qualifier. The Central Asian side is eleven places above the Philippines (156) in the latest FIFA rankings at 145 in the world.
Showing posts with label Neil Etheridge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Neil Etheridge. Show all posts
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Azkals new Fil-foreign recruits to play in Panaad friendly games
From The Visayan Daily Star
Neil Etheridge will not be around to renew his acquaintance with the Negrenses when the Azkals arrive tomorrow, but the Philippine Men’s Football Team will introduce to the public Filipino-German Roland Mueller, a second choice keeper in Germany’s football club MSV Duisburg.
With Mueller is Fil-Spanish defender Carlie Olai-Var De Murga, who will also suit for the Azkals as they play against PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champions Ceres – Negros Team at the Panaad pitch on September 13 at 5:30 p.m.
The Azkals are also scheduled to play against the Korean-reinforced Central Philippine University squad from Iloilo City on Friday, and against a team from Manila on September 11.
The friendly games will help the national team prepare for the Long Four-Nation Long Teng Cup set in Taiwan on September 30 to October 4.
The 23-year-old Mueller is touted to be the perfect stand in keeper for Etheridge, while De Murga, 22, will bring in the skills that earned him a spot in the Racing Club Portuense that is competing in the Spanish 3rd division.
But while the Azkals are expected to be coming out strong in the friendly matches, the local teams will be giving them a good fight, Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon said.
To allow Negrenses the chance to see the Azkals play at the Panaad once again, the governor instructed the Provincial Sports Office to waive all charges for the spectators during the games.
Choice seats, however, will be reserved for officials and sponsors, Marañon said.
Meanwhile, Homeless World Cup Philippine Team skipper Negrense Janrick Soriano will be joining the Ceres - Negros Team when they play against the Azkals on September 13.
Aside from Soriano, Ceres-Negros Team head coach Norman Fegidero said the team will have Lemuel Unabia and Jake Morallo in the lineup.
As for the September 8- 15 Azkals camp, PFF U23 Team Coordinator Jojie Ronda said the tryout will be exclusive those who wish to join the men’s team and the national U23 team squad.
The PFF has issued invitations to Ceres-Negros Team’s Joshua Beloya, Aldrin Dolino and Jovin Bedic to join the tryouts, Ronda said.
Neil Etheridge will not be around to renew his acquaintance with the Negrenses when the Azkals arrive tomorrow, but the Philippine Men’s Football Team will introduce to the public Filipino-German Roland Mueller, a second choice keeper in Germany’s football club MSV Duisburg.
With Mueller is Fil-Spanish defender Carlie Olai-Var De Murga, who will also suit for the Azkals as they play against PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champions Ceres – Negros Team at the Panaad pitch on September 13 at 5:30 p.m.
The Azkals are also scheduled to play against the Korean-reinforced Central Philippine University squad from Iloilo City on Friday, and against a team from Manila on September 11.
The friendly games will help the national team prepare for the Long Four-Nation Long Teng Cup set in Taiwan on September 30 to October 4.
The 23-year-old Mueller is touted to be the perfect stand in keeper for Etheridge, while De Murga, 22, will bring in the skills that earned him a spot in the Racing Club Portuense that is competing in the Spanish 3rd division.
But while the Azkals are expected to be coming out strong in the friendly matches, the local teams will be giving them a good fight, Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon said.
To allow Negrenses the chance to see the Azkals play at the Panaad once again, the governor instructed the Provincial Sports Office to waive all charges for the spectators during the games.
Choice seats, however, will be reserved for officials and sponsors, Marañon said.
Meanwhile, Homeless World Cup Philippine Team skipper Negrense Janrick Soriano will be joining the Ceres - Negros Team when they play against the Azkals on September 13.
Aside from Soriano, Ceres-Negros Team head coach Norman Fegidero said the team will have Lemuel Unabia and Jake Morallo in the lineup.
As for the September 8- 15 Azkals camp, PFF U23 Team Coordinator Jojie Ronda said the tryout will be exclusive those who wish to join the men’s team and the national U23 team squad.
The PFF has issued invitations to Ceres-Negros Team’s Joshua Beloya, Aldrin Dolino and Jovin Bedic to join the tryouts, Ronda said.
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
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).
Friday, July 15, 2011
Model being linked to the Azkals' rape allegation kicked out of show; Madrigal, Palami defend accused players
By JULIEN MERCED C. MATABUENA - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines – A model was reportedly kicked out of one of the special segments in the FHM’s 100 Sexiest victory party held on July 14 because of her purported involvement in the Philippine Azkals’ rape controversy---as the alleged victim.
“How would you feel kung nadawit ka, or 'yung anak mo or sister mo 'di ba? So you can just imagine how I feel, 'di ba?” the model, whose face was not shown on camera, told “TV Patrol” in a taped interview aired on Thursday.
However, she refused to talk about the controversial issue at hand as she and her lawyer are still looking into the case.
“I already referred that matter to my lawyer and he advised me not to be out in the open until we have studied the case thoroughly including all its ramifications. So for now, no comment on that issue.
“'Pag na-rape ka ba mapu-prove mo ba agad sa 'kin 'yun or whatever? 'Di ba? So no comment on that [rape allegation],” she stressed.
In a separate report by PEP, published also on Thursday, the model related that she was already informed of her status in the FHM 100 Sexiest victory party. Still, she came to the venue to “insist to be still in the show” and was still able to join the morning rehearsal.
“GMA-7 was able to record it na I was rehearsing for the show, [but] two people talked to me again and told me that they really have to pull me out from the show,” she was quoted by PEP as saying.
She also admits to feeling harassed, saying, “Why is my job being taken away from me? This is my job.”
Asked by PEP if her being pulled out of the show was in any way connected to the Azkals issue, the model replied, “You tell me, do you think it has something to do with the Azkals? Would you be here interviewing me if my name was not being linked to the Azkals?”
Apollo Sangalang, the model’s lawyer, also sent in a text message, as shown in the same “TV Patrol” report, saying that they “have yet to decide on the next step to take re the case.”
Sangalang cited the issue’s complicated and personal nature as their reasons for doing so, adding that “because [girl's name edited out] is a model, she doesn't want this issue to appear like a publicity stunt.
“And next she also doesn't want to downgrade [or] put in a bad light or pull down the entire Azkal team and the entire Phil football. She doesn't want to do that,” he insisted.
More, the report said that based on the model’s Facebook profile, she is currently a Physics major studying at the University of the Philippines.
FHM, in its statement published in abovementioned PEP article, confirmed that the model was indeed pulled out from the show but clarified, “it's the brand's prerogative because it's their segment buy in the show... We just want to make it clear, hindi FHM ang nagpa-pull out sa kanya.”
In the midst of rigorous training for their upcoming World Cup qualifying match vs. Kuwait on July 23, four members of the Azkals – namely Neil Etheridge, Jason Sabio, Simon Greatwich and Anton del Rosario – were accused early this week by a certain Paul Weiler, allegedly a self-proclaimed Philippine Football Federation consultant, of raping a woman the players allegedly met at a bar.
As of this writing, all the accused, except for Etheridge, have already personally disproved these allegations through interviews aired in “24 Oras” and “TV Patrol.”
Sexy actress Michelle Madrigal, who apparently was also being speculated in blogs and Internet forums as the yet-to-be-named alleged rape victim, also reacted on the issue on July 12.
However, she did not clarify in her statement whether she’s addressing just the rape allegation as a whole, or if she’s also answering the rape victim rumor.
“Morning!don't believe everything u read online or on the papers.its all rumors n accuzation.thanks to all my fans for being on my side and for the narrow minded people,may god bless u.let's stay positive everyone! Think 1st sa tingin nyo ba kung nangyari talaga yun will be active on twitter? The boys don't need this right now.lets pray that they win the game vs kuwait!” Madrigal’s tweet read.
Recall that Madrigal was rumored a few weeks back to have been dating Etheridge. She later on disproved this through Twitter and said that she is just good friends with the striker.
“People should stop assuming..I'm friends with neil,simon n anton.wala naman kayong alam kaya sana wag kayo gumawa ng kwento.don't hate coz I'm cool w them!to all the fans I'm NOT dating neil etheridge.I don't normally care about what people say but your words are hurting me deeply.thank u n godbless!” she posted on July 4.
Etheridge, in a separate exclusive interview with PEP, likewise denied dating Madrigal.
In related news, Azkals’ team manager Dan Palami laments that some of his team members are being accused of rape at such a crucial time.
“It is unfortunate that as we prepare for one of the most important matches, issues that are based on sources that have been proven to be non-credible are being used to malign several members of the team,” Palami’s exclusive statement sent via text message to PEP on July 14.
Palami further stated that he “will never tolerate actions such as those being alleged and would certainly take disciplinary action on erring players” as manager.
However, like what he already claimed in a live interview with “24 Oras” on Monday, Palami maintained that he “need[s] more than an internet blog, and a statement of a purported PFF [Philippine Football Federation] Consultant that has been officially disowned by the PFF itself, before i can take action."
In a separate phone interview, also with PEP on Wednesday, the team manager stressed that Weiler “is not in any way related to the team."
In his SMS statement, Palami went on to say that the team is “trying to focus on the job we have to do..."
More, the same PEP report cited two unnamed sources close to the Azkals who told them that the rape accusation is “not true.”
MANILA, Philippines – A model was reportedly kicked out of one of the special segments in the FHM’s 100 Sexiest victory party held on July 14 because of her purported involvement in the Philippine Azkals’ rape controversy---as the alleged victim.
“How would you feel kung nadawit ka, or 'yung anak mo or sister mo 'di ba? So you can just imagine how I feel, 'di ba?” the model, whose face was not shown on camera, told “TV Patrol” in a taped interview aired on Thursday.
However, she refused to talk about the controversial issue at hand as she and her lawyer are still looking into the case.
“I already referred that matter to my lawyer and he advised me not to be out in the open until we have studied the case thoroughly including all its ramifications. So for now, no comment on that issue.
“'Pag na-rape ka ba mapu-prove mo ba agad sa 'kin 'yun or whatever? 'Di ba? So no comment on that [rape allegation],” she stressed.
In a separate report by PEP, published also on Thursday, the model related that she was already informed of her status in the FHM 100 Sexiest victory party. Still, she came to the venue to “insist to be still in the show” and was still able to join the morning rehearsal.
“GMA-7 was able to record it na I was rehearsing for the show, [but] two people talked to me again and told me that they really have to pull me out from the show,” she was quoted by PEP as saying.
She also admits to feeling harassed, saying, “Why is my job being taken away from me? This is my job.”
Asked by PEP if her being pulled out of the show was in any way connected to the Azkals issue, the model replied, “You tell me, do you think it has something to do with the Azkals? Would you be here interviewing me if my name was not being linked to the Azkals?”
Apollo Sangalang, the model’s lawyer, also sent in a text message, as shown in the same “TV Patrol” report, saying that they “have yet to decide on the next step to take re the case.”
Sangalang cited the issue’s complicated and personal nature as their reasons for doing so, adding that “because [girl's name edited out] is a model, she doesn't want this issue to appear like a publicity stunt.
“And next she also doesn't want to downgrade [or] put in a bad light or pull down the entire Azkal team and the entire Phil football. She doesn't want to do that,” he insisted.
More, the report said that based on the model’s Facebook profile, she is currently a Physics major studying at the University of the Philippines.
FHM, in its statement published in abovementioned PEP article, confirmed that the model was indeed pulled out from the show but clarified, “it's the brand's prerogative because it's their segment buy in the show... We just want to make it clear, hindi FHM ang nagpa-pull out sa kanya.”
In the midst of rigorous training for their upcoming World Cup qualifying match vs. Kuwait on July 23, four members of the Azkals – namely Neil Etheridge, Jason Sabio, Simon Greatwich and Anton del Rosario – were accused early this week by a certain Paul Weiler, allegedly a self-proclaimed Philippine Football Federation consultant, of raping a woman the players allegedly met at a bar.
As of this writing, all the accused, except for Etheridge, have already personally disproved these allegations through interviews aired in “24 Oras” and “TV Patrol.”
Sexy actress Michelle Madrigal, who apparently was also being speculated in blogs and Internet forums as the yet-to-be-named alleged rape victim, also reacted on the issue on July 12.
However, she did not clarify in her statement whether she’s addressing just the rape allegation as a whole, or if she’s also answering the rape victim rumor.
“Morning!don't believe everything u read online or on the papers.its all rumors n accuzation.thanks to all my fans for being on my side and for the narrow minded people,may god bless u.let's stay positive everyone! Think 1st sa tingin nyo ba kung nangyari talaga yun will be active on twitter? The boys don't need this right now.lets pray that they win the game vs kuwait!” Madrigal’s tweet read.
Recall that Madrigal was rumored a few weeks back to have been dating Etheridge. She later on disproved this through Twitter and said that she is just good friends with the striker.
“People should stop assuming..I'm friends with neil,simon n anton.wala naman kayong alam kaya sana wag kayo gumawa ng kwento.don't hate coz I'm cool w them!to all the fans I'm NOT dating neil etheridge.I don't normally care about what people say but your words are hurting me deeply.thank u n godbless!” she posted on July 4.
Etheridge, in a separate exclusive interview with PEP, likewise denied dating Madrigal.
In related news, Azkals’ team manager Dan Palami laments that some of his team members are being accused of rape at such a crucial time.
“It is unfortunate that as we prepare for one of the most important matches, issues that are based on sources that have been proven to be non-credible are being used to malign several members of the team,” Palami’s exclusive statement sent via text message to PEP on July 14.
Palami further stated that he “will never tolerate actions such as those being alleged and would certainly take disciplinary action on erring players” as manager.
However, like what he already claimed in a live interview with “24 Oras” on Monday, Palami maintained that he “need[s] more than an internet blog, and a statement of a purported PFF [Philippine Football Federation] Consultant that has been officially disowned by the PFF itself, before i can take action."
In a separate phone interview, also with PEP on Wednesday, the team manager stressed that Weiler “is not in any way related to the team."
In his SMS statement, Palami went on to say that the team is “trying to focus on the job we have to do..."
More, the same PEP report cited two unnamed sources close to the Azkals who told them that the rape accusation is “not true.”
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Azkals slams alleged rape accusation
By JULIEN MERCED C. MATABUENA - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines – Three of the four accused Azkals have spoken up about the rape accusation hurled at them by a certain Paul Weiler.
"I've heard a lot of rumors and speculations, that this person [Weiler] is trying to get back at the team because we had a fall[ing] out while we were in Germany.
"I don't know the full story, they’re all just rumors," Jason Sabio, one of the accused, was quoted in a report by abs-cbnnews.com, posted on July 11.
The Azkals' stay in Germany in mid-June this year was part of their preparations for their first FIFA World Cup qualifying match vs. Sri Lanka.
Apart from Sabio, Weiler named Neil Etheridge, Anton del Rosario and Simon Greatwich as the other suspects involved in the alleged rape case.
Del Rosario said the Azkals management are already “trying to figure out where [the rumor] came from.”
"We're trying to focus on the game ahead of us and that’s what’s more important than anything else," del Rosario added.
Greatwich, for his part, called these allegations “distractions” that are “not helping” the team, specifically as their upcoming World Cup qualifying match vs. Kuwait has already been scheduled later this month.
“We’ve done nothing wrong so hopefully we can get over it together,” he said.
Etheridge has yet to give his side as of this writing.
Meanwhile, at PR Asia’s July 11 press conference for Filipino-Spanish Azkals striker Angel Aldeguer Guirado, a representative of the firm stepped in and explained that Guirado cannot answer questions pertaining to the alleged incident.
PFF consultant drops names of four Azkals
In an undated post on thehotdogstand.net, the website’s editor Eric Dimzon posted a message allegedly from Weiler, who identified himself as “still I hold my position as PFF [Philippine Football Federation] consultant ( since 2007 ) and I was very close to the NT [national team, Azkals] and players until June 15 ( Training camp Germany ) as I was suddenly suspended from the PHil NT through NT headcoach Micheal Weiss…”
Weiler directly addressed his letter to Dimzon.
In the message, Weiler directly named the suspects, citing “different sources” whom he refused to divulge “bec. I’ve fear that the sources get pressure.”
Weiler singled out Etheridge, saying, "Mr. Weiss [Azkals head coach Michael Weiss] told me about Neils [sic] sex violence problem, around 1 week before he and the Azkals came to Germany.”
Weiler, who said he was with the Azkals while they were in Germany, wrote that he hoped to discuss the matter once the team arrived in Germany but “it did not happen and no action were done to suspend Neil and the others involved.”
“Neil committed now by his own words, that he used sex violence vs a woman and I recorded the message exchange with him in Facebook,” he claimed.
Weiler alleged: “Players Anton del Rosario, Jason Sabio and especially Simon Greatwich were involved and recorded the incident also via video cam ( Jason Sabio was the one holding the camera ). Neil Etheridge and his very best friend Simon Greatwich did rape the woman and it seems happened in a villa/house of general manager Dan Palami ( who seems not know about what happened in his house and was not there ).
“’Master mind’ of this sex violence idea seems Anton del Rosario .. so far I know he did not rape the woman but pushed the others to do it.”
Weiler then said that he already forwarded these information to the German Football Federation (DFB). He added that he also expressed his disappointment to the federation for not suspending the players allegedly involved.
Weiler also threatened that he “will involve on Monday the german police BKA ( since as german citizen I’ ve to tell the police if I know about a criminal act …even (so far I know ) it happened in a foreign country). He added that he already told the DFB “and others” of this plan.
In the latter part of his message, Weiler said that he “can not live w/ the hard facts that players raped a young Manila woman and that it will be ‘okay’ for everybody.”
He expressed fear that the four accused “will do it again” if they go unpunished.
“Maybe serious Azkals players are also pressured by them,” he added.
Weiler then clarified that he believes that “a very small group of the Azkals and the more as 90% of azkals players are very serious and have no intension to do such violent behaviours.
“I like the Azkals furtheron .. but it would be very piTy and unhealthy for the whole NT [national team] if such players can escape from their bad styles easily.”
The alleged exchange of message between Paul and Neil
On July 10, Pinoy Gossip Boy (PGB) posted the alleged messages Weiler had exchanged with Neil Etheridge on Facebook.
PGB, however, did not detail from whom or how he received this information.
Based on the screenshots published, Weiler confronted Etheridge concerning the incident. This allegedly happened on July 7 as seen on the timestamps.
When Weiler informed Etheridge that he already knew about the latter’s “sex violence problem” through Weiss, Etheridge replied, “Yeah but what exactly did he say to you I am back in England and it is hard to speak to him atm (at the
moment).”
Weiler then told Etheridge that “it’ s up to you if u want to know what he said.”
“I think you have cellphone or whatever hardware. Maybe you can swim to him and ask him!” Weiler said.
To this, the striker allegedly answered, “Haha… I just don’t understand, no offence, why he is telling everyone? The situation has nothing to do with the world only people inside should know… I don’t appreciate everyone knowing, I hope you can understand this.”
Weiler’s last response as posted on PGB read, “I think the story will makes its round and it will be a dynamic story.. I must say I can understand that coach Weiss will soon resign … but maybe he is so cooooooooooooooooooooooool. ( interesting how his mom will react who educated him in serious way .. she said to me always ).
“do u know Neil: I ‘ m openminded to you…. YES.. I’ m very disappointed.”
Azkals team manager sheds light on Weiler’s ‘true’ identity
Palami, for his part, appeared in a live interview with “24 Oras” on July 11 and talked about Weiler’s identity.
“Actually, nag-aapply 'yun [Weiler] eh. He was appointed as consultant before, during the time of PFF president Johnny Romualdez. That was about almost 10 years ago. And until now 'yun ang hinahawakan niyang papel,” he said.
The Azkals manager further related that Weiler showed him the said papers when they went to Germany last June. He asked Weiler for accreditation from the incumbent PFF administration, but the latter wasn’t able to provide pertinent papers.
“So sabi niya mag-aapply na lang ako as consultant for the Azkals. But then I said we don't have that kind of position right now, so maybe in the future.
“But 'yun nga, medyo hindi yata nasiyahan na hindi tinanggap kaya he come up with the statement na hindi naman talaga siya kasama sa team. I'm quite surprised na meron siyang mga gano'n,” Palami said.
He added that he talked with the Azkals coaches and all other players upon finding out about the issue, “[but] as far as they are concerned, hindi naman talaga, hindi naman sila nakipag-usap kay Paul or... hindi nga nila napag-usapan itong kontrobersiyang ito.”
“On their side [accused Azkals], talagang ibang-iba 'yung istorya eh. In fact, I've also asked the people sa bahay [ko] and ibang-iba talaga 'yung istorya. That's why sabi ko nga I can't take action kung ang titingnan ko lang [ay] 'yung nasa Internet.
“Because anybody right now can write on the Internet. Sabi ko nga sa Internet buhay pa rin si Elvis, pati 'yung ibang mga personalities. But then again, this is a very serious allegation. Talagang kailangang pansinin because we will never tolerate that,” said Palami.
However, with just blog posts and “the figment [of imagination] of a purported consultant na hindi naman talaga consultant...” as proof for now, “we cannot take action [yet],” said the team manager.
He added that he’s “trying to get more details,” as abovementioned proof “are not credible sources.”
Palami hopes that his team, which is currently training for their upcoming match vs. Kuwait, will remain focused on the game despite this hurdle.
“Kinausap ko naman sila and sabi ko naman, kung wala namang nangyari na gano'n [eh 'di] wala silang kailangang ikabahala.
“Ang kinatatakutan lang nila is, of course, 'yun nga, parang right now would be [a] really high-profile [time para sa] mga players natin. Sabi ko nga sa kanila, it's important na talagang maingat tayo sa lahat ng mga gagawin natin, mag-ingat tayo sa lahat ng sasabihin natin because you'll now be under scrutiny.
“It's unfortunate na may mga ganitong issues but we cannot be distracted from itong goal natin na to get past Kuwait,” he said.
According to the same "24 Oras" report, Weiss declined to comment on the issue but was said to have appealed to the public to not believe everything they read on the Internet.
The story, as told in blind item
Days leading to Eric Dimzon's item posted online, a number of posts describing the incident have already surfaced on various blog sites such as thehotdogstand.net and fashionpulis.com. However, these websites did not directly name the Azkals members nor the team in question.
According to Dimzon, still via thehotdogstand.net, the girl “gamely went” with one athlete to the team manager’s place in Makati, which reportedly “also serves as the residence of other players.”
Apparently, the two were already “enjoying themselves” when three more athletes “tried to join the two.” The girl supposedly pleaded to not have sex with the four athletes but it fell on deaf ears as one of them “insisted that she must.”
The girl was then purportedly “made to perform sexual acts typical of a porn star” as three athletes “lived out their wildest sexual fantasies with her” while the fourth taped them.
More, the players allegedly “detained” the girl and only released her after she promised them not to tell others what happened.
“When [the] team manager found out what happened, he got mad at [the] players... So mad, in fact that he threw the players out of his property,” forcing them to seek temporary refuge at a hotel.
However, the team manager allegedly “decided to let the players go off the hook quite easily” and instead purportedly busied himself with “trying to cover up the totally shameful and unacceptable incident.”
“Immediately after the incident, [the] team manager offered a huge amount to [the girl] as hush money. He then told the involved players to lie low. And he used his vast public relations machinery to promote his team as worthy of praise and adulation despite the incident,” Dimzon finished.
Meanwhile, according to a post on fashionpulis.com, there are many versions of the incident but presented two to which readers “can be the judge.”
Version A claimed that one of the athletes allegedly invited a girl whom he met at a bar “to the house for some fun.” To the girl’s surprise, two of his team mates arrived after she and the first athlete “were done.” Things took a turn for the worse when two of the three guys allegedly forced her to have sex with them while the third guy recorded the whole thing on video.
Version B purported that the girl did the deed with two of the members while one of them watched. However, it turned out that the last guy did more than watch because he allegedly taped the act without the girl’s consent. When the girl discovered the video, she was said to have immediately insisted that it be erased. The athletes rejected her demand and threw her out of the house instead.
This same post, citing a “reliable source,” also claimed that the girl has already filed rape charges last July 7 against those who victimized her.
It also alleged that “one of the athletes involved in the case has tapped the services of a very prestigious law firm located along Paseo de Roxas.”
MANILA, Philippines – Three of the four accused Azkals have spoken up about the rape accusation hurled at them by a certain Paul Weiler.
"I've heard a lot of rumors and speculations, that this person [Weiler] is trying to get back at the team because we had a fall[ing] out while we were in Germany.
"I don't know the full story, they’re all just rumors," Jason Sabio, one of the accused, was quoted in a report by abs-cbnnews.com, posted on July 11.
The Azkals' stay in Germany in mid-June this year was part of their preparations for their first FIFA World Cup qualifying match vs. Sri Lanka.
Apart from Sabio, Weiler named Neil Etheridge, Anton del Rosario and Simon Greatwich as the other suspects involved in the alleged rape case.
Del Rosario said the Azkals management are already “trying to figure out where [the rumor] came from.”
"We're trying to focus on the game ahead of us and that’s what’s more important than anything else," del Rosario added.
Greatwich, for his part, called these allegations “distractions” that are “not helping” the team, specifically as their upcoming World Cup qualifying match vs. Kuwait has already been scheduled later this month.
“We’ve done nothing wrong so hopefully we can get over it together,” he said.
Etheridge has yet to give his side as of this writing.
Meanwhile, at PR Asia’s July 11 press conference for Filipino-Spanish Azkals striker Angel Aldeguer Guirado, a representative of the firm stepped in and explained that Guirado cannot answer questions pertaining to the alleged incident.
PFF consultant drops names of four Azkals
In an undated post on thehotdogstand.net, the website’s editor Eric Dimzon posted a message allegedly from Weiler, who identified himself as “still I hold my position as PFF [Philippine Football Federation] consultant ( since 2007 ) and I was very close to the NT [national team, Azkals] and players until June 15 ( Training camp Germany ) as I was suddenly suspended from the PHil NT through NT headcoach Micheal Weiss…”
Weiler directly addressed his letter to Dimzon.
In the message, Weiler directly named the suspects, citing “different sources” whom he refused to divulge “bec. I’ve fear that the sources get pressure.”
Weiler singled out Etheridge, saying, "Mr. Weiss [Azkals head coach Michael Weiss] told me about Neils [sic] sex violence problem, around 1 week before he and the Azkals came to Germany.”
Weiler, who said he was with the Azkals while they were in Germany, wrote that he hoped to discuss the matter once the team arrived in Germany but “it did not happen and no action were done to suspend Neil and the others involved.”
“Neil committed now by his own words, that he used sex violence vs a woman and I recorded the message exchange with him in Facebook,” he claimed.
Weiler alleged: “Players Anton del Rosario, Jason Sabio and especially Simon Greatwich were involved and recorded the incident also via video cam ( Jason Sabio was the one holding the camera ). Neil Etheridge and his very best friend Simon Greatwich did rape the woman and it seems happened in a villa/house of general manager Dan Palami ( who seems not know about what happened in his house and was not there ).
“’Master mind’ of this sex violence idea seems Anton del Rosario .. so far I know he did not rape the woman but pushed the others to do it.”
Weiler then said that he already forwarded these information to the German Football Federation (DFB). He added that he also expressed his disappointment to the federation for not suspending the players allegedly involved.
Weiler also threatened that he “will involve on Monday the german police BKA ( since as german citizen I’ ve to tell the police if I know about a criminal act …even (so far I know ) it happened in a foreign country). He added that he already told the DFB “and others” of this plan.
In the latter part of his message, Weiler said that he “can not live w/ the hard facts that players raped a young Manila woman and that it will be ‘okay’ for everybody.”
He expressed fear that the four accused “will do it again” if they go unpunished.
“Maybe serious Azkals players are also pressured by them,” he added.
Weiler then clarified that he believes that “a very small group of the Azkals and the more as 90% of azkals players are very serious and have no intension to do such violent behaviours.
“I like the Azkals furtheron .. but it would be very piTy and unhealthy for the whole NT [national team] if such players can escape from their bad styles easily.”
The alleged exchange of message between Paul and Neil
On July 10, Pinoy Gossip Boy (PGB) posted the alleged messages Weiler had exchanged with Neil Etheridge on Facebook.
PGB, however, did not detail from whom or how he received this information.
Based on the screenshots published, Weiler confronted Etheridge concerning the incident. This allegedly happened on July 7 as seen on the timestamps.
When Weiler informed Etheridge that he already knew about the latter’s “sex violence problem” through Weiss, Etheridge replied, “Yeah but what exactly did he say to you I am back in England and it is hard to speak to him atm (at the
moment).”
Weiler then told Etheridge that “it’ s up to you if u want to know what he said.”
“I think you have cellphone or whatever hardware. Maybe you can swim to him and ask him!” Weiler said.
To this, the striker allegedly answered, “Haha… I just don’t understand, no offence, why he is telling everyone? The situation has nothing to do with the world only people inside should know… I don’t appreciate everyone knowing, I hope you can understand this.”
Weiler’s last response as posted on PGB read, “I think the story will makes its round and it will be a dynamic story.. I must say I can understand that coach Weiss will soon resign … but maybe he is so cooooooooooooooooooooooool. ( interesting how his mom will react who educated him in serious way .. she said to me always ).
“do u know Neil: I ‘ m openminded to you…. YES.. I’ m very disappointed.”
Azkals team manager sheds light on Weiler’s ‘true’ identity
Palami, for his part, appeared in a live interview with “24 Oras” on July 11 and talked about Weiler’s identity.
“Actually, nag-aapply 'yun [Weiler] eh. He was appointed as consultant before, during the time of PFF president Johnny Romualdez. That was about almost 10 years ago. And until now 'yun ang hinahawakan niyang papel,” he said.
The Azkals manager further related that Weiler showed him the said papers when they went to Germany last June. He asked Weiler for accreditation from the incumbent PFF administration, but the latter wasn’t able to provide pertinent papers.
“So sabi niya mag-aapply na lang ako as consultant for the Azkals. But then I said we don't have that kind of position right now, so maybe in the future.
“But 'yun nga, medyo hindi yata nasiyahan na hindi tinanggap kaya he come up with the statement na hindi naman talaga siya kasama sa team. I'm quite surprised na meron siyang mga gano'n,” Palami said.
He added that he talked with the Azkals coaches and all other players upon finding out about the issue, “[but] as far as they are concerned, hindi naman talaga, hindi naman sila nakipag-usap kay Paul or... hindi nga nila napag-usapan itong kontrobersiyang ito.”
“On their side [accused Azkals], talagang ibang-iba 'yung istorya eh. In fact, I've also asked the people sa bahay [ko] and ibang-iba talaga 'yung istorya. That's why sabi ko nga I can't take action kung ang titingnan ko lang [ay] 'yung nasa Internet.
“Because anybody right now can write on the Internet. Sabi ko nga sa Internet buhay pa rin si Elvis, pati 'yung ibang mga personalities. But then again, this is a very serious allegation. Talagang kailangang pansinin because we will never tolerate that,” said Palami.
However, with just blog posts and “the figment [of imagination] of a purported consultant na hindi naman talaga consultant...” as proof for now, “we cannot take action [yet],” said the team manager.
He added that he’s “trying to get more details,” as abovementioned proof “are not credible sources.”
Palami hopes that his team, which is currently training for their upcoming match vs. Kuwait, will remain focused on the game despite this hurdle.
“Kinausap ko naman sila and sabi ko naman, kung wala namang nangyari na gano'n [eh 'di] wala silang kailangang ikabahala.
“Ang kinatatakutan lang nila is, of course, 'yun nga, parang right now would be [a] really high-profile [time para sa] mga players natin. Sabi ko nga sa kanila, it's important na talagang maingat tayo sa lahat ng mga gagawin natin, mag-ingat tayo sa lahat ng sasabihin natin because you'll now be under scrutiny.
“It's unfortunate na may mga ganitong issues but we cannot be distracted from itong goal natin na to get past Kuwait,” he said.
According to the same "24 Oras" report, Weiss declined to comment on the issue but was said to have appealed to the public to not believe everything they read on the Internet.
The story, as told in blind item
Days leading to Eric Dimzon's item posted online, a number of posts describing the incident have already surfaced on various blog sites such as thehotdogstand.net and fashionpulis.com. However, these websites did not directly name the Azkals members nor the team in question.
According to Dimzon, still via thehotdogstand.net, the girl “gamely went” with one athlete to the team manager’s place in Makati, which reportedly “also serves as the residence of other players.”
Apparently, the two were already “enjoying themselves” when three more athletes “tried to join the two.” The girl supposedly pleaded to not have sex with the four athletes but it fell on deaf ears as one of them “insisted that she must.”
The girl was then purportedly “made to perform sexual acts typical of a porn star” as three athletes “lived out their wildest sexual fantasies with her” while the fourth taped them.
More, the players allegedly “detained” the girl and only released her after she promised them not to tell others what happened.
“When [the] team manager found out what happened, he got mad at [the] players... So mad, in fact that he threw the players out of his property,” forcing them to seek temporary refuge at a hotel.
However, the team manager allegedly “decided to let the players go off the hook quite easily” and instead purportedly busied himself with “trying to cover up the totally shameful and unacceptable incident.”
“Immediately after the incident, [the] team manager offered a huge amount to [the girl] as hush money. He then told the involved players to lie low. And he used his vast public relations machinery to promote his team as worthy of praise and adulation despite the incident,” Dimzon finished.
Meanwhile, according to a post on fashionpulis.com, there are many versions of the incident but presented two to which readers “can be the judge.”
Version A claimed that one of the athletes allegedly invited a girl whom he met at a bar “to the house for some fun.” To the girl’s surprise, two of his team mates arrived after she and the first athlete “were done.” Things took a turn for the worse when two of the three guys allegedly forced her to have sex with them while the third guy recorded the whole thing on video.
Version B purported that the girl did the deed with two of the members while one of them watched. However, it turned out that the last guy did more than watch because he allegedly taped the act without the girl’s consent. When the girl discovered the video, she was said to have immediately insisted that it be erased. The athletes rejected her demand and threw her out of the house instead.
This same post, citing a “reliable source,” also claimed that the girl has already filed rape charges last July 7 against those who victimized her.
It also alleged that “one of the athletes involved in the case has tapped the services of a very prestigious law firm located along Paseo de Roxas.”
PEP: Michelle Madrigal reacts on rape allegations vs Azkals
Nerisa Almo, PEP - GMA News
Earlier this week, PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) and other news organizations reported about the rumored rape incident, which allegedly involved four members of the national football team—the Philippine Azkals.
The players who got dragged into the controversy were Simon Greatwich (midfielder), Neil Etheridge (goalkeeper), Anton del Rosario (defender), and Jason Sabio (defender).
And the incident reportedly took place at the house of their team manager Dan Palami.
The girl's name was not revealed by the media and press, thus, giving rise to speculation that celebrity Michelle Madrigal could be the female victim.
However, the Captain Barbell actress made it clear on her Twitter account that she's not the "victim."
She wrote on July 12 (published as is): "Morning!don't believe everything u read online or on the papers.its all rumors n accuzation.thanks to all my fans for being on my side and for the narrow minded people,may god bless u.let's stay positive everyone! Think 1st sa tingin nyo ba kung nangyari talaga yun will be active on twitter? The boys don't need this right now.lets pray that they win the game vs kuwait!"
It will be recalled that on the second week of June, she and Neil reportedly went out on a date.
Michelle immediately denied having a romantic relationship with him.
On July 4, she posted: "People should stop assuming..I'm friends with neil,simon n anton.wala naman kayong alam kaya sana wag kayo gumawa ng kwento.don't hate coz I'm cool w them!to all the fans I'm NOT dating neil etheridge.I don't normally care about what people say but your words are hurting me deeply.thank u n godbless!"
For his part, Neil was quick to clarify with PEP.ph in a one-on-one interview with managing editor Karen Pagsolingan that he's just friends with Michelle. "We have the same group," he explained briefly.
Earlier this week, PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) and other news organizations reported about the rumored rape incident, which allegedly involved four members of the national football team—the Philippine Azkals.
The players who got dragged into the controversy were Simon Greatwich (midfielder), Neil Etheridge (goalkeeper), Anton del Rosario (defender), and Jason Sabio (defender).
And the incident reportedly took place at the house of their team manager Dan Palami.
The girl's name was not revealed by the media and press, thus, giving rise to speculation that celebrity Michelle Madrigal could be the female victim.
However, the Captain Barbell actress made it clear on her Twitter account that she's not the "victim."
She wrote on July 12 (published as is): "Morning!don't believe everything u read online or on the papers.its all rumors n accuzation.thanks to all my fans for being on my side and for the narrow minded people,may god bless u.let's stay positive everyone! Think 1st sa tingin nyo ba kung nangyari talaga yun will be active on twitter? The boys don't need this right now.lets pray that they win the game vs kuwait!"
It will be recalled that on the second week of June, she and Neil reportedly went out on a date.
Michelle immediately denied having a romantic relationship with him.
On July 4, she posted: "People should stop assuming..I'm friends with neil,simon n anton.wala naman kayong alam kaya sana wag kayo gumawa ng kwento.don't hate coz I'm cool w them!to all the fans I'm NOT dating neil etheridge.I don't normally care about what people say but your words are hurting me deeply.thank u n godbless!"
For his part, Neil was quick to clarify with PEP.ph in a one-on-one interview with managing editor Karen Pagsolingan that he's just friends with Michelle. "We have the same group," he explained briefly.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Azkals deny rape allegations
With a report from Dyan Castillejo abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals find themselves in the midst of controversy as 4 members of the team are being accused of rape.
A tabloid report from a certain Paul Weiler is making its rounds in the Internet. Weiler is accusing 4 Azkals of raping a woman in the house of team manager Dan Palami.
The 4 Azkals being accused by Weiler are Neil Etheridge, Anton del Rosario, Simon Greatwich and Jason Sabio.
But the Azkals are denying the allegations.
"I've heard a lot of rumors and speculations, that this person (Weiler) is trying to get back at the team because we had a fallout while we were in Germany," said Jason Sabio. "I don't know the full story, they’re all just rumors."
Anton del Rosario added that the Azkals management is investigating the issue.
"We're all trying to figure out where (the rumor) came from," he said.
Simon Greatwich said he was disappointed that people were trying to bring down the team.
"We have a big game ahead of us and these distractions are not helping," Greatwich said.
All 3 players said that they will remain focused on their upcoming game against Kuwait.
"We're trying to focus on the game ahead of us and that’s what’s more important than anything else," del Rosario said.
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals find themselves in the midst of controversy as 4 members of the team are being accused of rape.
A tabloid report from a certain Paul Weiler is making its rounds in the Internet. Weiler is accusing 4 Azkals of raping a woman in the house of team manager Dan Palami.
The 4 Azkals being accused by Weiler are Neil Etheridge, Anton del Rosario, Simon Greatwich and Jason Sabio.
But the Azkals are denying the allegations.
"I've heard a lot of rumors and speculations, that this person (Weiler) is trying to get back at the team because we had a fallout while we were in Germany," said Jason Sabio. "I don't know the full story, they’re all just rumors."
Anton del Rosario added that the Azkals management is investigating the issue.
"We're all trying to figure out where (the rumor) came from," he said.
Simon Greatwich said he was disappointed that people were trying to bring down the team.
"We have a big game ahead of us and these distractions are not helping," Greatwich said.
All 3 players said that they will remain focused on their upcoming game against Kuwait.
"We're trying to focus on the game ahead of us and that’s what’s more important than anything else," del Rosario said.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Azkals goalkeeper dating separated Michelle
By JECELYN V. MACAHINDOG - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines -- Just like how the Phil Younghusband and Angel Locsin rumored romance started, another Azkals member declares his admiration for an actress via the social networking site Twitter.
In a report by “24 Oras” June 15, Philippine Azkals’ goalkeeper Neil Etheridge is said to be dating sexy actress Michelle Madrigal. This was confirmed by a series of tweets exchanged by the two on Twitter.
Some of their posts read: “Mitch_Madrigal @Neil38Etheridge have a safe trip!”
“Neil Etheridge@Mitch_Madrigal thanks beautiful! Have a good time, don’t party too much or work too hard. I’m sure I will see you when I get back! Enjoy! X”
“Michelle_Madrigal@Neil38Etheridge noooo!!! Stay!!!”
“Neil Etheridge@Mitch_Madrigal I wish I could, I would haha just for you... But unfortunately I can’t :-(”
Michelle, who just recently broke up with co-“Survivor Philippines” castaway Jon Hall, dispels the rumor by stressing that she and Neil are just friends. The “Captain Barbell” star also added in the same report that she and Neil go out on dates with a group of friends.
Neil, on the other hand, is currently in Germany with his team Azkals to train for their upcoming World Cup qualifying match to be held in Sri Lanka.
In a report by “24 Oras” June 15, Philippine Azkals’ goalkeeper Neil Etheridge is said to be dating sexy actress Michelle Madrigal. This was confirmed by a series of tweets exchanged by the two on Twitter.
Some of their posts read: “Mitch_Madrigal @Neil38Etheridge have a safe trip!”
“Neil Etheridge@Mitch_Madrigal thanks beautiful! Have a good time, don’t party too much or work too hard. I’m sure I will see you when I get back! Enjoy! X”
“Michelle_Madrigal@Neil38Etheridge noooo!!! Stay!!!”
“Neil Etheridge@Mitch_Madrigal I wish I could, I would haha just for you... But unfortunately I can’t :-(”
Michelle, who just recently broke up with co-“Survivor Philippines” castaway Jon Hall, dispels the rumor by stressing that she and Neil are just friends. The “Captain Barbell” star also added in the same report that she and Neil go out on dates with a group of friends.
Neil, on the other hand, is currently in Germany with his team Azkals to train for their upcoming World Cup qualifying match to be held in Sri Lanka.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Vice Ganda warms up to popular Azkal player via Twitter
By NEIL RAMOS - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines – Actress Angel Locsin is not the only one keen for an Azkal. Seemingly, popular TV host and comedian Vice Ganda wants one too, in the person of Azkal goalie Neil Etheridge. And the former wants the whole of Twitter-verse to know about it, too.
Vice Ganda made his pursuit of the football hunk obvious with a series of Tweets, June 10 –the day he saw Etheridge at ABS-CBN.
Apparently, Etheridge as with other members of the popular football team who were within the premises of the network giant for a send-off party Friday, just before they leave for Germany for a two-week training as part of their preparations for the June 29 and July 3 World Cup Qualifiers home and away matches against Sri Lanka.
Vice Ganda, who was also at the venue preparing for “Showtime,” saw the group and immediately zeroed in on Etheridge. None too soon, he made contact.
In a tweet he sent to @Neil38Etheridge he said, “hey! ya I saw you on stage. If you’re still here in ABS come pass by our Showtime studio!”
It wasn't known if the two had met prior but Etheridge was casual as he was polite in his reply to @vicegandako.
“I will try find out where that is... I will try [to] pass by; I'm still here at another event... What time will you be there till?”
Vice Ganda quickly tweeted with, “show will start later than usual because of the nba finals so we'll most probably be here till 1ish. Just let me know!”
The move was a success.
Etheridge and his Azkal’s teammates eventually dropped in at the “Showtime” set to squeals and shrieks courtesy of studio audiences, who made as if they're addressing the Chippendales, screaming for the group to take off their shirts but to no avail.
Vice Ganda, meanwhile, was mercilessly teased to no-end by “Showtime” co-hosts Kim Atienza, Vhong Navarro and Anne Curtis. He didn't mind. He looked happy enough. But he made no further overtures on air.
Etheridge was happy as well. The “Showtime” appearance made him a trending topic on Twitter — which amused the Filipino-British football player, going on to thank those who made it happen.
Still via Twitter he said, “Thank you for making me trend.. Much love to you all... Next time maybe I will take it off haha!”
As everyone awaits for a possible showbiz "love story" to evolve between the two, Vice Ganda is having – of all things – a fit of sorts, this courtesy of “Showtime” guest judge, Ryan Bang.
Only a few hours ago he tweeted @ryanbangko, “YOU DON'T INTRUDE WITH SOMEONE ELSE'S ACCOUNT! I HATE YOU!!!”
Earlier, he minced no words scolding the latter via the same platform.
“BAD @ryanbangko! Pinakialaman yung Ipad ko at nagpost sa FanPage ko ng I love my son Ryan Bang forever! Bad bad bad!”
MANILA, Philippines – Actress Angel Locsin is not the only one keen for an Azkal. Seemingly, popular TV host and comedian Vice Ganda wants one too, in the person of Azkal goalie Neil Etheridge. And the former wants the whole of Twitter-verse to know about it, too.
Vice Ganda made his pursuit of the football hunk obvious with a series of Tweets, June 10 –the day he saw Etheridge at ABS-CBN.
Apparently, Etheridge as with other members of the popular football team who were within the premises of the network giant for a send-off party Friday, just before they leave for Germany for a two-week training as part of their preparations for the June 29 and July 3 World Cup Qualifiers home and away matches against Sri Lanka.
Vice Ganda, who was also at the venue preparing for “Showtime,” saw the group and immediately zeroed in on Etheridge. None too soon, he made contact.
In a tweet he sent to @Neil38Etheridge he said, “hey! ya I saw you on stage. If you’re still here in ABS come pass by our Showtime studio!”
It wasn't known if the two had met prior but Etheridge was casual as he was polite in his reply to @vicegandako.
“I will try find out where that is... I will try [to] pass by; I'm still here at another event... What time will you be there till?”
Vice Ganda quickly tweeted with, “show will start later than usual because of the nba finals so we'll most probably be here till 1ish. Just let me know!”
The move was a success.
Etheridge and his Azkal’s teammates eventually dropped in at the “Showtime” set to squeals and shrieks courtesy of studio audiences, who made as if they're addressing the Chippendales, screaming for the group to take off their shirts but to no avail.
Vice Ganda, meanwhile, was mercilessly teased to no-end by “Showtime” co-hosts Kim Atienza, Vhong Navarro and Anne Curtis. He didn't mind. He looked happy enough. But he made no further overtures on air.
Etheridge was happy as well. The “Showtime” appearance made him a trending topic on Twitter — which amused the Filipino-British football player, going on to thank those who made it happen.
Still via Twitter he said, “Thank you for making me trend.. Much love to you all... Next time maybe I will take it off haha!”
As everyone awaits for a possible showbiz "love story" to evolve between the two, Vice Ganda is having – of all things – a fit of sorts, this courtesy of “Showtime” guest judge, Ryan Bang.
Only a few hours ago he tweeted @ryanbangko, “YOU DON'T INTRUDE WITH SOMEONE ELSE'S ACCOUNT! I HATE YOU!!!”
Earlier, he minced no words scolding the latter via the same platform.
“BAD @ryanbangko! Pinakialaman yung Ipad ko at nagpost sa FanPage ko ng I love my son Ryan Bang forever! Bad bad bad!”
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