Small but sweet Azkals victory

BACOLOD CITY—With their backs against the wall in a game they couldn’t afford to lose, the Philippine Azkals once again showcased Tuesday night the type of indomitable spirit that has fueled their rise the past three years.

The Azkals, with Stephan Schrock providing a flash of inspiration, fought back from a goal down in the first half to repulse Pakistan, 3-1, and retain the Philippine Peace Cup on goal difference in front of an adoring throng at Panaad Stadium here.

Schrock hit a  goal after assisting on Patrick Reichelt’s equalizer to punctuate a performance described by Azkals skipper Rob Gier as “world-class.”

Chris Greatwich also upheld his reputation as a scorer of important goals with his 78th minute strike giving the Azkals a 2-1 cushion against the Pakistanis, who only needed a draw to lift the Cup.

The victory was  crucial for the Azkals, whose confidence absorbed a blow following a 1-2 loss to Chinese-Taipei Friday night.

Azkals manager Dan Palami said winning the Peace Cup is one of the many steps they would have to take to achieve their  goal of qualifying for the Asian Cup through the AFC Challenge Cup in the Maldives next year.