The Philippine football teams started strong for the country’s campaign in 2017 Southeast Asian Games as the men’s team ousted the Cambodian squad, 2-0, while the women’s team escapes with a 2-1 victory against host Malaysia in the opening day on Tuesday evening in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Even though the men’s team showcased a sloppy start, the first half was still enough for them to put pressure on their counterpart – showing more tenacity and composed plays.
As the heat of the game reached the final stretch, the men’s squad’s intensity finally paid off as the FEU standout Reymart Cubon scored the Pinoys’ first goal of the match the came from a corner pass from reigning UAAP MVP and Ateneo star Jarvey Gayoso.
The Filipino team was not yet contented as they delivered a finishing blow in the final 10 minute mark of the game by a good-looking free kick that pass through the Cambodian wall – sealing the Filipino’s victory.
Meanwhile, the Filipina’s scored the women’s first goal courtesy of Hiraya FC’s Patrice Impelido.
However, the Malaysian squad put on a fightback as they responded quickly through Dadree Rofinus’ equalizer in the 54th minute of action but another 20 minutes were enough for the national women’s team as the former Ateneo striker Cam Rodriguez scored a go-ahead dagger goal in the 74-minute, securing a win for the Filipinas.
The Philippine women’s squad and the Thailand both in the top spot with three points. | Tretch Melarpes – PTV #SEAG2017PH
