Philippines holds Malaysia to scoreless draw

PH Azkals. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

SHAH ALAM – The Philippines held its own against Malaysia, coming away with a scoreless draw against the reigning Suzuki Cup champions Friday at the Shah Alam Stadium here.

Playing the first of three friendly matches in a space of 12 days, the Azkals weren’t able to make the most out of their chances, particularly in the second half, before surviving a strong finish by the Malaysians.

It marked the second straight draw for both teams, after they also played to a 1-1 stalemate in Malaysia last February.

The Azkals needed a fine performance from goalkeeper Roland Muller to keep a clean sheet in their first match since the 4-3 win over Palestine in the AFC Challenge Cup.

Stephan Schrock returned to the Azkals’ lineup after an 11 month layoff, and he was involved in most of the Azkals’ chances in a dour opening half.

Schrock had a volley going over the bar after fine work from Angel Guirado on the right flank. Earlier, Denis Wolf had a gilt-edge chance gone begging when he sent his shot just narrowly wide after he was released on the left by Juani Guirado.

The Malaysians were particularly wasteful with Safiq Rahim, blowing three clear-cut chances in the second half.