Azkals remain positive despite losses

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MANILA — The Philippine Azkals are still upbeat in spite of two losses as they prepare for another major tournament slated late this year.

The Azkals first suffered their lone loss against Palestine at 0-1 during the AFC Challenge Cup. Afterwards, they suffered another heartbreak against Burma (Myanmar) at 2-3 during the Philippine Peace Cup held over the weekend at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

While disappointed, head coach Thomas Dooley is optimistic that the Azkals are on the right track in time for the AFF Suzuki Cup this December.

“We’re moving forward and I’m still happy with how we’ve developed in the past seven months,” said Dooley, who was appointed head coach last February. “The only thing we want to find out is how we can play our best game in a final.”

Meanwhile, Burma coach Raddy Avramovic, mentioned that the Azkals have greatly improved from the last time they faced each other in the Suzuki Cup semifinals. He was then coaching the team of Singapore.

“I think they have more quality now,” said Avramovic.  “The problem when facing the Philippines is that they don’t have just 11 players, but 20 players who can make an impact.”