SEA Games: PH ice hockey team salvages bronze medal

The Philippines’ Jan Aro Regencia and John Fuglister celebrates after a goal against Malaysia during the Ice Hockey bronze medal match of the 30th South East Asian Games 2019. INQUIRER PHOTO/ Sherwin Vardeleon

MANILA, Philippines–The Philippine national ice hockey team made true its promise of salvaging a bronze medal.

Following a heartbreaking loss to Singapore Saturday night, the Eagles vented their ire on Malaysia, 17-1, to secure a podium finish in the 30th Southeast Asian Games Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

Steven Füglister, who was visibly upset the night before, had four goals to keep the Malaysians on catch-up mode early in the first period.

Kenneth Stern tossed in four more, Jann So Tiong, the promising Aro Regencia, and Lenard Lancero chipped in a pair each in the stand that gave the Filipinos something to revel on despite a botched title-retention bid.

Sam Bengzon, among the steady performers in the tournament, also made his presence felt in the contest, adding a goal to the Eagles’ scoring effort in the final frame.

Amin Raja converted the lone goal for Malaysia which came in the dying seconds of the match.