MONTAYRE: AZKALS COULD HAVE DONE WITH MORE SUPPORT

MANILA (21 Dec 2010) – Two days after their exit from the semi-finals of the AFF Suzuki Cup 2010, the FA of Cebu president Richard Montayre said that the Philippines national team could have done with more support from – from the PFF (Philippine Football Federation) and also the wanting public.

Philippines, the surprise package at this year’s AFF Suzuki Cup 2010, failed to get past Indonesia following their identical 1-0 losses over two legs in the games that were played at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

Montayre said that the Azkals amazing run was unforeseen by many where there were many doubters that they could reach the semifinals.

“Actually, their performance was unexpected. It was a good performance, but they could have done more with the support of everybody – one the support of PFF (Philippine Football Federation)and two, the support of the public,” said Montayre to Sun.Star Cebu.

“The team still has a lot of room for improvement. A lot of people now know that the Philippines are capable of winning against football giants.”

Montayre believes that for Philippine football to flourish in international competitions, the country should focus on building up the youth in grassroots programs and not only depend on picking up Filipino players outside the country.

“We should start with what we have in the youth and look for talents here,” said Montayre.

“The PFF should focus on improving the young homegrown talents and also hold a national tournament for men and youth divisions.”

AFF SUZUKI CUP 2010, FINALS FIXTURES

First-leg – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (BUKIT JALIL NATIONAL STADIUM, KUALA LUMPUR)

26 Dec Malaysia vs Indonesia (2000hrs)

Second-leg – Jakarta, Indonesia (GELORA BUNG KARNO STADIUM, JAKARTA)

29 Dec Indonesia vs Malaysia (2000hrs)