Booters to spice up historic romp

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines goes for the top group spot and a semifinal berth as it battles unpredictable Myanmar at resumption of action in the AFF Suzuki Cup at the Hien Troung Stadium in Nam Dinh, Vietnam tonight.

Riding the crest of their shock 2-0 upset of defending champion Vietnam last Sunday, the Filipino booters need just a draw against the winless Burmese to book a ticket to the home-and-away semifinals for the first time in the 16-year history of Southeast Asia’s premier football tournament.

A draw or a win will further cement their place in Philippine football in what could probably the best finish by the team in the history of Southeast Asia’s premier football event.

“There should be no let-up from our team,” team manager Dan Palami said. “We should not be satisfied. We have a great chance to do something big for Philippine football and we want to make the most out of it.”

Gametime is at 8:30 p.m.

The charges of British coach Simon McMenemy, who surprised the hosts last Sunday, pace the four-nation with four points, counting their 1-all draw against Singapore, ahead of the Lions, who have the same points as the Filipinos, on goal difference.

This left the match between the Vietnamese, in third with three points, and the Singaporeans a must-win for both squads when they tangle also at 8:30 p.m. with the winner advancing to the next round.

Given its past results, the Philippines has an even chance of emerging as group top-notcher with a win today although a loss coupled by a draw between Vietnam and Singapore could still eliminate the Filipinos from event.

If Vietnam prevails, the Filipinos must finish with a better goal difference over Singapore to advance.

“We must forget about the Vietnam game and just focus on Myanmar,” said national team veteran Aly Borromeo.

McMenemy also cautioned his charges, saying: “It’s very difficult try to stay grounded after that win against Vietnam. Things like that don’t happen very often. As much as we’re elated, we’re not looking further than the next game.”

“Myanmar will give us problems because they have nothing to lose,” he added.

All three had every reason to be wary about the Burmese, who played the nationals to a scoreless draw in the 2007 tournament in Bangkok, an outcome that turned out to be the only point for the Filipinos in that forgettable campaign.

With Phil Younghusband, Neil Etheridge, Jason de Jong, Rob Gier and Ray Jonnson among the key additions combining with mainstays like Borromeo and Chieffy Caligdong the comebacking Chris Greatwitch, the Philippines has earned the respect of their rivals in the event.

Myanmar has had a disappointing campaign so far, but showed plenty of fight against Singapore.

The Burmese led, 1-0, at halftime only to give up two goals in the second half, including an injury-time strike from Agu Casmir, to absorb their second straight setback last Sunday.