It was a magical moment for Philippine football as the Azkals attacked relentlessly to the delight of some 20,000 roaring fans that filled every space of the stadium.Fittingly, it was Barotac Nuevo’s Chieffy Caligdong who broke the ice in the first half. Barotac is widely acknowledged as the country’s football capital.
He hit his goal in the 42nd minute before Phil Younghusband capped the Azkals’ splendid showing with a goal in the waning moments of injury – thanks to an assist of Jason Sabio.
If not for some missed opportunities, the Azkals could have scored more.
Also credit the Mongolian keeper for rejecting several dangerous attempts of the Azkals.
Overall, the Azkals controlled 80 percent of the match.
Despite owning the lion’s share of possession in the first half, the Azkals had a hard time penetrating the defensive phalanx of the Blue Wolves until Caligdong hit a right-footed, close range shot in the 42nd minute.
The kick was a flowing shot that started when Caligdong faked with a left shot to evade his defender before his right-footed shot passed through between the legs of goalie Ganbayar Tseveensuren that electrified the banner crowd no end.
The Azkals had seven legitimate attempts before that, but could not capitalized on the visibly inexperienced Mongolian side, which could not even make a decent throw in.
It the 36th minute, the Philippine Azkals saw their first clear goal-scoring opportunity when Ian Araneta’s header from a cross by Caligdong nearly drowned deep before goalie Tseveensuren saved it anew.
Inactive for nearly two years, the Blue Wolves finally saw scoring opportunity in the 39th minute after midfielder Tsedenbal Tumen Jargal nearly converted fine volley from a Ganbatar Tusbayar cross, but Azakals Neil Etheridge was there to deny it.
The Mongolians could not crack at the 4-4-2 formation of the Azkals, and troubles worsen after midfielder Pagamsuren Altantulga was shown the door in the 25th after two yellow cards.Scalper held
Meantime, Senior Supt. Allan Guisihan, the Negros Provincial director, said that at least four scalpers were apprehended and were brought to the organizers' office for questioning.
He said the scalpers were caught selling complimentary tickets to as high as P600. The four were released and were not charged, though.
The PFF has allocated 10,000 free tickets for match, the first leg of the home and away series.
“Generally, the event was peaceful except for the scalping,” Guisihan said.
He also said those people who were not able to avail of the free tickets were encouraged to watch in a wide screen at the nearby gymnasium which was provided by Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Maranon Jr.
By FRANCIS SANTIAGO
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