11 February 2011

'Azkals can beat Mongolia even without Etheridge'

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals are confident they can beat the Mongolians in their home turf even without goal keeper Neil Etheridge, who might not suit up for the second leg of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup.

“Judging by the Mongolian team, I don't think we'll miss Neil that much,” Phil Younghusband said. “The Mongolian team didn't have much shot on our goal… we can still win in Mongolia.”

Younghusband and Emilio “Chieffy” Caligdong visited ABS-CBN on Friday for an interview with TV Patrol. They were accompanied by Younghusband’s elder brother, James.

Younghusband said they have lots of players in reserve who can step up in the absence of Etheridge.

“We have a lot of good players on the bench, we have Eduard Sacapano, who can come in and replace Neil and can do just as good at the job,” he said.

The 6’3” Etheridge, who also plays as reserve goal keeper for Fulham Club, was able to rejoin the Azkals after the UK football club went on an “international break.”

He, however, would have to return to Fulham while his team mates continue their Challenge Cup qualifying duel with Mongolia in Ulan Bator on March 15.

Etheridge played along side the Azkals when they blasted the Mongolian Blue Wolves, 2-0, during their first encounter at the Panaad Stadium last Wednesday.

The Filipino booters are currently on a break before they begin practicing again for their next game.

“Pahinga muna kami,” said Caligdong. “Kasi pineprepare namin ‘yung practice namin sa Baguio.”

Caligdong said the cold climate of Baguio will help them prepare for Mongolia’s sub-zero temperatures.

“Para makaprepare kami sa klima ng Mongolia,” he said.

ABS CBN news

6 comments:

  1. Am I the only one who's kinda pitying the Mongolians?
    I mean, come on!!! They have only beaten 3 teams EVER, and now pinagtitripan natin sila!!!

    I suggest that they transfer to a FIFA region where teams are weaker, maybe OFC

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  2. dapat alisin Australia Sa AFC...dun sila sa AFC..and play off for a spot with South America Like Before...Australian spot in qualifying should be for Asian Nations....

    Btw Mejo Naawa din ako sa Mongolia ng na Red Card yung defender nila.

    Another Player who may miss the 2nd leg is Rob Gier due to his Construction Company but thats not confirmed yet..if so..then Sabio can step up while Sacapano for Etheridge. Our Defenders were'nt really test much as we were mostly attacking and even Etheridge wanted to be a field player ...lol

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  3. i Meant to say dun sila sa OFC gaya nga dati

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  4. The best defense is offense. Chieffy will score many goals thus no need for Neil Etheridge.

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  5. It's really frustrating. So many good crosses were given but most of them were not taken advantage of.

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  6. Yes it is frustrating that there were so many crosses and nothing to show except that goal by Chieffy. If they score one goal against us early, it could change the flow of the game. Football is like that. I think if it draws, we go to penalties. And that is like a lottery. However, i still think if we train hard enough and have the mental focus just like we did in the Suzuki Cup, this tie is in the bag.

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