It was a rousing start to a promising campaign for the Philippine Women’s National Team after a 3-0 win again Malaysia, last Thursday, 15 August 2019 at the Institute of Physical Education in Chonburi, Thailand.
Goals from midfielder Camille Rodriguez and defender Hali Long gave the Philippines team their first win in Group A.
“It was a good start for us, we are happy with the result of the game,” said head coach Marnelli Dimzon after the match. “Although during the first 15 minutes, we struggled because of Malaysia’s pressure, but after that we controlled the game.”
Despite a slow start, the Philippines capitalized on their set pieces as they broke the deadlock in the 40th minute. Rodriguez was there for the easy tap-in after the ball ricocheted off the cross bar.
Long headed in the second goal six minutes in to the second half. Claire Lim’s free kick found the defender inside the box, who sent a looping header over and past the goalkeeper.
Rodriguez added an insurance goal nine minutes later after another Lim free kick to the box.
The Philippines currently lead Group A with 3 points. They will next face Timor-Leste on Saturday 17 August 2019.
The Women’s National Team has Jeff Cheng as manager, and counts support from the Philippine Sports Commission and MVP Sports Foundation.