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photo by Craig Burrows
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Philippine Azkals vs Guam Matao
Bacolod City -- The long wait is over. The underdogs are back in the Kennel [ Panaad Stadium, which hosted most of the Men's National Football Team prior to RMS' repair]. June 12, 2012 marked the Philippines 114th Independence Celebration, and all roads led to Panaad Stadium to catch Philippine Azkals battle against Guam Matao.
My friends and I have been waiting looong enough for another NT game here, after the successful staging of Philippines vs Mongolia Feb 2011, most international games were played at Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila. Although they were aired live on free tv, the high you get from watching a live game is just way different, and that is something we were all craving for.
Fan Gear:
Team Pilipinas Shirt/Jersey
Pilipinas Scarf
Tickets to share.
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TeamAwesomeBCD |
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Iza and Ciara travelled from Iloilo. |
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Powerpuff Girls with Mojo Jojo |
I invited football-crazed friends from Iloilo too. We shared the same passion ever since the AFC Challenge Cup, TeamAwesomeBCD, a group of kids from all ages, whom i met thru Twitter, were with me too. We strategically positioned at the bleachers, to cheer our hearts out.
The starting XI for Team Azkals
Etheridge, Gier, Guirado, De Murga, Lucena, J. Younghusaband, Cagara, Angeles, P. Younghusband, Sabio, Wolf.
The starting XI for Team Matao
[could not find the complete list]
It was a very exciting first half, as Angel Guirado scored at the 7th minute! Everyone was thrilled, and yes, we were seated next to the Kaholeros, so imagine the cheers! Carlos Martinez De Murga, or Carlie made it 2-0 at the 14th minute, his first goal for the Philippines, and Guirado again +2 after the first half.
In the second half, the Azkals had a hard time finding the back of the net, Matao adjusted well their defense, and strikers were just trying hard to slot it the ball to no avail. Yet, a win is a win!
Fulltime: Philippine Azkals 3 - 0 Guam Matao!
Glad to see The Captain waiving the Flag. Taken during the traditional walk after the game, Team Matao did the same and thanked the people for the great welcome.
After the game, we grabbed a quick bite at the local pizza joint, and head to the Team Dinner's venue and start the most awaited part: FANGIRLING.