SINGAPORE (2 Dec 2013) – Singapore gained just the right tonic ahead of the SEA Games next week when they thrashed the Philippines in a friendly that was played tonight at the Hougang Stadium.
Given that the Philippines will not be taking part at the biennial tournament in Myanmar this time, still the win has showcased Singapor’s seriousness in wanting to win their first ever gold medal at the meet.
“I can have no complaints,” said Singapore coach Aide Iskandar. “This is definitely a good result, having scored six goals. Philippines are a good side with a few good individual players.
“The first half wasn’t that good in terms of the chances which we’ve created, but we showed better fitness to improve that in the second. I told them not to be over-confident (after this result).
“We’ve improved in each game, starting from the one against Hougang (United), and we’ll take this result as a good morale booster. The most important thing is to stay focused on getting the three points against Laos.”
The scorers for Singapore were Nazrul Nazari in the 28th minute, Shahfiq Ghani (52nd), Sahil Suhaimi (56th), Hafiz Sujad (70th), Iqbal Hussain (89th) and Madhu Mohana (90th).
“Singapore were sharper and quicker than us. They restarted the game very fast; once their keeper got the ball, he always looked to distribute it quickly. We struggled with their pace and were constantly overloaded,” said Philippines coach Leigh Manson.
The game was held as a fund raiser for victims of Typhoon Haiyan.
