Azkals fall to Bahrain anew in friendly

Friendly game between Philippine Azkals and Bahrain. INQUIRER PHOTO/Sherwin Vardeleon

The Philippines suffered a 1-3 setback to Bahrain Friday night at Rizal Memorial Stadium in a match aimed at preparing the Azkals for the AFF Suzuki Cup next month.

Mike Ott scored a memorable debut goal, but it was not enough with Bahrain skipper Mohammed Kabir striking early in each half. Marzooq Alromaihi sealed the outcome with a stoppage time goal.

The Azkals were left chasing shadows in the first half where Bahrain looked dynamic and enterprising going forward.

Kabir fired the opener from close range in the fourth minute, before doubling the advantage with a free header off a set piece in the 46th minute.

Ott, who came in for Kevin Ingreso at the break, found the back of the net in the 49th minute, with a low strike after a lovely cross from Martin Steuble at the far post.