Smart supports ‘Face Off’

CEBU, Philippines - Smart Communications and the Cebu Football Association (CFA) sealed a partnership that will have the telecom giant support “Face Off in Cebu City:Azkals vs. Lions.” This was formalized in a get together with Smart Sports Marketing Manager Epok Quimpo, CFA President Ricky Dakay and Azkals team manager Dan Palami.

“Cebu is an amazing venue for sports, and we are proud to be part of the event,” Quimpo said.

The Philippine Azkals plays against the Singapore Lions at 7 pm on Thursday at the Cebu City Sports Center, the first ever international football game in Cebu sports history.

Leading the Azkals are team captain Chieffy Caligdong and the Younghusband brothers, Phil and James. Cebu-born Paolo Pascual and Ray Jonsson are also with the team.

Meanwhile, Palami and Azkals Coach Michael Weiss paid a visit to the CCSC last Sunday night and gave a thumbs up approval of the pitch. Weiss appeared surprised at the improvement of the grass which he saw three weeks ago on a previous visit.

Palami also lauded the CFA for getting the pitch ready for Thursday’s game. He even managed play a little football, exchanging passes with CFA Board member Raffy Musni and he also took some shots at the goal.

Joining them on the visit were CFA President Ricky Dakay and board members Rodney Orale, Joey Herrera, Nimrod Quiñones, Rico Navarro and balikbayan coach Graeme Mackinnon, who returned to Cebu just watch the game. (FREEMAN)