Azkals force scoreless draw against Chinese

BACOLOD, Philippines – Facing a relentless bombing run from China, Neil Etheridge and the Philippine Azkals gallantly defended home territory and pulled off something that’s not been done in a century – draw with the Chinese.

With the returning custodian Etheridge organizing a resolute defensive line, the Filipinos forced Team Dragon to a 0-0 standoff Friday night in the FIFA World Cup and AFC Asian Cup Joint Qualifiers at Panaad Stadium in front of euphoric supporters and a big group of stunned Chinese.

A 17/1 underdog, the Azkals stole a point from China and posted the Philippines’ best result versus long-time tormentor since the country’s 2-1 victory way back in May 1919 at the Far East Games.

“We’re very ecstatic with the result,” said team manager Dan Palami as the Azkals improved to four points on a 1-1-1 card, just three off seven-pointer China, which sits at No. 2 in Group A behind Syria’s nine.

“We know somehow that if we play with focus and we play together as a team then we can achieve this kind of result, even upset China. I’m glad all the players gave it their all especially Neil, who kept us in the game, and the coaching staff, who did their homework,” he added.

Spearheaded by the fearsome strike team of La Liga player Wu Lei, Brazilian-born Ai Kesen, and Yang Xu, the visitors bombarded Etheridge and Co. But the Filipinos gamely took them on.

"China was obviously a very good team and deserved their high ranking (No. 84) but we stood on our two feet, we defended very well and though we didn't dominate (possession), we were even close to scoring one," said Etheridge, who earned Man of the Match honors.

Team Dragon, who were looking to dominate the Philippines again in the mold of their 8-1, 3-0, and 2-0 victories in the last 18 months, launched 29 shots overall. But Etheridge was up to it, making 14 saves, none more spectacular than his save on skipper Hao Junmin's attempt from inside the box a minute into added time.

"I made a couple of saves but nothing drastic. It was a massive team effort from the starting 11 to the boys off the bench, something I'm proud of. Im sure for the rest of the competition, we'll be giving more," said Etheridge, who missed the Philippines first two games due to hamstring injury.

The Azkals try to build on this momentum as they face Maldives on the road on November 14 and first-leg conqueror Syria five days later over in Dubai.

"Hopefully by that time, we have more time to work together, understand the system that Scott (Cooper) and Goran (Milejovic) want to play and of course, maybe get two or three more players coming in with quality that's needed to get us through to the next stage," said Palami.