Fil-German midfield gem for Azkals

MANILA—Wearing size 6.5 shoes, Filipino-German midfielder Stephan Schrock probably has the smallest feet in the Philippine team.

That fact, however, belies his key role for the Azkals, who are looking to advance to the second round of World Cup qualifying for the first time when they face Sri Lanka today at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The 24-year-old standout from German second division side Greuther Furth was the driving force at midfield in the 1-1 draw against the Sri Lankans in the first leg in Colombo.

On more than one occasion, Schrock was a cut above the rest, skipping past defenders and supplying some defense-splitting passes despite the poor condition of the pitch, which has been partly blamed by the Azkals’ dip in form.

One such pass—an inch-perfect lob that sailed over the Sri Lankan backline—almost led to a goal from Ian Araneta, who consoled himself by the thought that he forced a good save from Manjula.

The coaching staff was one in saying that the 5-foot-6 Schrock, who is coming from a seven-month layoff after a knee injury sustained early this year, has more to show in the second leg, considering that the Azkals will be playing on a better field.

Coach Michael Weiss expects more from Schrock.

“He’s outstanding,” said Weiss of the former Germany Under-17 and Under-20 player.

“But I wish a little more effectivity with the final pass. Our offense pretty much relies on him.”

The Azkals have no shortage of quality finishers in Angel Guirado and Phil Younghusband, and Schrock is expected to make the job easier for them today.

“I think I can play better with a better pitch. That was just 70 percent of what I can do,” said Schrock of his performance in the first leg.