Phil Younghusband lifts Philippines past Laos

MANILA, Philippines — Top marksman Phil Younghusband provided the spark as the Philippine Azkals nipped Laos, 3-1, to get off to a rousing start in the CTFA International Tournament Friday night at the Municipal Stadium in Chinese Taipei. 

Younghusband, the country’s all time leading scorer, did what he does best and opened scoring for the team composed of young and seasoned players with a 35th minute finish off an assist from his brother James.

Phil’s opening goal hiked his overall tally to 48. 

Comebacking veteran Angel Guirado proved on target as well as he went past his marker to fire it home in the 46th and double the Azkals’ upperhand. 

Kintaro Miyagi made it 3-to-nil in the 81st but the Laotians prevented a shutout with a late consolation goal. 

Phl XI guns for its second straight win in the four-nation tourmanent tomorrow against host Chinese Taipei. 

Coach Marlon Maro’s side is using the competition to give youngsters exposure in international play with the senior team. Julian Clarino, Christian Lapas and Javier Gayoso in fact got their first caps with the Azkals and even started.