Filipinas off to rousing start in AFF Women’s Championship. –PFF PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine national women’s football team did not disappoint in its first game on home field at Rizal Memorial Stadium Monday night.
The Filipino crowd—albeit thin—still played its part as its enthusiasm despite the rain gave the Filipinas a much-needed boost against a formidable Australian side to kick off its AFF Women’s Championship campaign on a high note.
“This is an amazing win for us. As I said earlier it does not matter whether this was Australia’s Under-23 squad this is a very tough squad that ranks among the top in the world so winning against them was a good one,” said national team head coach Alan Stajcic after the match.
Buoyed by the home crowd, the Filipinas claimed a stunning 1-0 victory thanks to a second-half goal by Sarina Bolden.
“They really inspired us to play our best. They were also amazing in braving the rain,” Stajcic said.
The Filipinas hope to sustain their form against Singapore on Wednesday in a game where Stajcic sees a much bigger crowd cheering the squad on.
“We wish there were more but I expect that this win will encourage more of them in our succeeding matches.”