Sports

Etheridge delivers epic performance in Azkal’s draw with China

The Philippine men’s football team yesterday managed to force China into a draw in a joint qualifying match held at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2023 Asian Cup.

The Azkal’s game was spearheaded by its goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.

Azkals stood their ground against China as they fail or miss their attempts for a goal.

Goalkeeper Etheridge was able to block China’s goal attempt and managed to slapped away the ball that had clear target line.

“It’s a bit of a blur to be honest. It’s tough,” ABS-CBN News quoted Etheridge as saying.

“This is the first time I’ve played in Panaad in a long time. It’s hot and sweaty. Basically, it’s not about me, it’s about the team and everything that has gone on this week, to have a good result not a great result but a good result against China ,” he added.

“Great feeling to put the national team shirt back on last night! A hard battle against a good team but a point well deserved! On to the next one! Thank you to all those at Panaad, who watched it on television or streamed it all around the world, salamat!” Etheridge said in a tweet.

Azkals also fell short in a number of chances to score a goal. The Philippines now ranks 117th in the world.

Azkal’s coach Scott Cooper said they were satisfied with their performance after fighting a team which is 59 times higher than them in the world rankings.

The Azkals had numerous chances to get on the board, too, but fell short.

The Philippines remains in third place under Group A, with 4 points on a win, a draw and a loss, behind No. 2 Syria, which beat the Azkals in their previous match at Panaad.

China stayed in first with 7 points, thanks to a pair of routs against the Maldives and Guam.

Staff Report

The Filipino Times is the chronicler of stories for, of and by Filipinos all over the world, reaching more than 236 countries in readership. Any interesting story to share? Email us at [email protected]

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