Philippines battles for bronze with Malaysia in SEA Games men’s football

CHONBURI — Though falling short of the ultimate prize, the Philippine U22 team is still in line for a piece of history when they vie for the bronze in the 33^rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games on Thursday with Malaysia at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.

The match is set at 3:30 p.m. (4:30 p.m. Manila time) in what the Pinoy booters envision as a great ending to a stellar campaign highlighted by a first semifinal appearance since 1991.

The U22s swept their two-game assignments in Group C to end early exits in the last 34 years. But Vietnam pulled the plug on their bid to contend for the gold with a 2-0 verdict last Dec. 15.

After a brief time feeling sad, the Filipinos got right back at it, ready to fight for the podium finish that’s never been done before in the country’s participation in the SEAG.

“My optimism comes from the relationship I’ve been able to build with players. I know the type of people they are, how they cared about the country and how much playing for the Philippines means to each of them,” said coach Garrath McPherson. “Knowing the character of the players, they’ll be ready to get back to work and bring home a medal.”

The country’s best performance ever in men’s football happened in the 1991 edition at home, where the legendary group led by Norman Fegidero finished fourth overall.

That was the only other time the Philippines reached the knockout stages. — Olmin Leyba