Wolf out, Etheridge doubtful for AFC tilt

MANILA, Philippines—Fil-German striker Dennis Wolf, whose presence has added bite to the Philippine Azkals’ attack, has been ruled out of the AFC Challenge Cup, but goalkeeper Neil Etheridge is still holding out hope that his club Fulham FC will release him for the March 9 to 19 tournament.

The 29-year-old Wolf, who scored his first international goal for the Philippines in the 1-1 draw against Malaysia Wednesday night, was unable to beat the deadline for the submission of his passport for the tournament.

But Wolf vowed to be back in the Azkals’ fold in the series of international friendly matches later this year and in the Suzuki Cup.

Etheridge had earlier excused himself from the Challenge Cup, but reconsidered after a solid performance against Malaysia.

“Of course, I want to be with the team in the Challenge Cup,” said Etheridge, who saved at least three clear goal scoring chances Wednesday night. “But it will be up to my club.”

Asked if he could play at least one of the three matches in the group, Etheridge said: “It’s either I play all three matches or not go.”

Coach Michael Weiss said Etheridge’s “commanding presence” will boost the team’s chan-ces in Nepal, where the Philippines shares the group with North Korea, Tajikistan and India.

Malaysia coach Krishnasamy Rajagopal said the Azkals have a “fair chance” in the Challenge Cup, although he acknowledged that North Korea and India are tough to beat.

“They were very motivated playing against us as defending champions (of Suzuki Cup),” he said. “If they can keep that consistently in the Challenge, they will have a fair chance.”